St Mary and St Chad CofE First School

Overview

St Mary and St Chad CofE First School continues to be a good school, described by pupils and parents as a ‘happy and caring’ community where ‘everybody feels included’. The school provides a wide range of learning opportunities that encourage positive attitudes and good behaviour, with a strong emphasis on faith, spirituality, and kindness.

Strengths

• Pupils achieve well academically and benefit from a redesigned curriculum with clearly set out knowledge and skills.
• Reading is prioritised through a dedicated curriculum that develops a love of reading, supported by a wide range of books.
• Children in the early years receive high-quality learning experiences and demonstrate readiness for formal learning.
• The school fosters a calm, respectful culture where pupils understand the importance of positive relationships and feel safe.
• High-quality support plans are in place for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), with effective collaboration between the school, parents, and outside agencies.

Areas to improve

• Teachers must better adapt the curriculum to meet the precise needs of pupils with SEND, ensuring learning activities match individual education plans.
• Staff must consistently ensure that the books pupils read are matched to their ability, so all pupils can apply their phonics knowledge effectively.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.