St Jude's Catholic Primary School Wigan

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 25 April 2023

There is a strong sense of belonging at St Jude's Catholic Primary School. Pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), are happy at this school. Pupils comment that they are well looked after by staff. This helps them to feel safe. Pupils told inspectors that, if they experience problems, they can tell any member of staff. Relationships between pupils and staff are positive and trusting. Parents and carers value the support that their children receive from staff. Since the previous inspection, leaders have continued to make key improvements to the quality of education for pupils. Leaders have developed an aspirational curriculum for all pupils, including those with SEND. Pupils achieve well across a range of subjects. Pupils, including children in the early years, respond well to the high expectations that leaders have set for their behaviour. Their conduct around school is calm and orderly. Pupils are respectful of one another, and they work purposefully together. Any misbehaviour, including rare incidents of bullying, are dealt with effectively by staff. Pupils work hard in lessons, and they achieve well. Pupils benefit from a range of leadership responsibilities. Those pupils who act as digital leaders play an important role in promoting online safety across the school. Such opportunities help to build pupils' confidence and prepare them well for life beyond the classroom. Pupils enjoy a wide range of extra learning opportunities. For example, they hone their talents and pursue their interests through activities such as sports clubs, choir and crafts.

What the school should improve

• In a small number of subjects, teachers do not check routinely that pupils have learned the knowledge that leaders intend. This means that some pupils do not have the key building blocks of knowledge that they need for their future learning. Leaders should ensure that teachers know if pupils have learned the intended key knowledge so that pupils' learning builds securely over time.
• Some pupils, particularly those who are disadvantaged, are absent from school too often. This means that they miss out on important learning and develop gaps in their knowledge. Leaders should ensure that pupils attend school regularly.

Read the full Ofsted report (opens in a new tab)