St Thomas More Catholic Primary School in Peterborough has been evaluated as a good school overall, with outstanding ratings in behaviour and attitudes, as well as personal development. The school is part of the St John the Baptist Catholic Trust, which provides a supportive framework for its operations. The headteacher, Anne-Marie McElhinney, leads a dedicated team that fosters a positive and inclusive environment for all pupils. The school emphasizes the importance of diversity, encouraging students to appreciate both their differences and commonalities. Relationships between staff and pupils are characterized by warmth and respect, creating a safe space for students to express their concerns and learn from their mistakes.
Pupils exhibit exemplary behaviour, contributing to a productive and focused classroom atmosphere. They are motivated to achieve high standards and aspire to further education and careers in various fields, including medicine and teaching. The school community is described as nurturing, with strong ties to the local area. Initiatives such as Year 6 pupils greeting their peers with a warm bagel each morning exemplify the school's commitment to creating a welcoming environment.
The school prioritizes reading, employing well-trained staff who utilize a consistent phonics approach to ensure pupils develop into confident readers. Regular assessments help identify students who may need additional support, allowing them to catch up quickly. The school is currently focusing on improving outcomes in mathematics and writing, areas where historical performance has been less robust. Recent curriculum reviews aim to clarify essential knowledge for pupils, although some teachers are still developing their understanding of the revised content.
The curriculum across other subjects is broad and ambitious, with staff demonstrating strong subject knowledge and delivering engaging lessons. The provision for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is a notable strength, with tailored support plans and collaboration with external agencies ensuring that these pupils can access the same curriculum as their peers.
In the early years, children receive a solid foundation, with a well-structured curriculum that introduces them to letters and numbers early on. By the time they transition to Year 1, they are well-prepared for the next stage of their education. The school's approach to personal development is exceptional, promoting social and emotional growth, understanding of equality, and knowledge of healthy relationships. Pupils are encouraged to participate in after-school clubs and various trips, enhancing their educational experience.
Behaviour throughout the school day is consistently excellent, with pupils demonstrating politeness and respect. The school culture emphasizes the importance of positive behaviour, aligning with its core values. High attendance rates reflect pupils' enjoyment of school life. Leadership at the school is effective, with strong collaboration among school leaders, trustees, and governors to monitor educational quality and support staff development.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. However, there is a need for ongoing professional development for some teachers to enhance their understanding of the revised mathematics and writing curriculums. This will help ensure that all lessons are effectively planned to build on pupils' learning and improve their outcomes. Overall, St Thomas More Catholic Primary School provides a supportive and enriching educational experience, preparing pupils to become responsible and active citizens.
