St Mary's Church of England Primary School, West Derby

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 24 March 2026

Pupils at St Mary’s learn in a welcoming and supportive community where each child is known as an individual. Pupils are proud of their school. They feel that they belong, and they welcome new pupils and visitors warmly. Staff care for pupils and help them to grow in confidence. Pupils’ behaviour is exemplary. They show respect at all times and make thoughtful choices that contribute to a calm and positive learning environment. Pupils are keen to learn and listen carefully in lessons. From the early years onwards, most pupils build the secure foundations that they need so that they achieve well. Most pupils meet national expectations in reading and writing and are well prepared for the next stage of their education. However, leaders know that pupils do not achieve as well in mathematics. Some pupils, particularly those who are disadvantaged, do not secure key knowledge as well as they should. Staff identify the barriers faced by disadvantaged pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities. Even so, some of these pupils do not routinely receive the support they need to build important skills in reading, writing and mathematics. Pupils enjoy the rich experiences that the school organises for them beyond lessons. They take part in a very wide range of activities. Sport plays a central role in the life of the school. Pupils represent St Mary’s in football, cricket, swimming and athletics across the city and region. They celebrate success and value teamwork and determination. Every pupil represents the school in one way or another by the end of Year 6. These experiences help pupils to understand how to contribute to their school, community and modern British society. Pupils attend school regularly and rightly feel safe. Leaders act quickly to support families when attendance falls. Staff deal with any unkind behaviour swiftly. Older pupils act as excellent role models and demonstrate the school’s values through their actions.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure that staff identify and address gaps and misconceptions in pupils' knowledge of phonics and early writing consistently.
• Leaders should make sure that teaching improves pupils' achievement in mathematics.
• Leaders should ensure that staff routinely adapt activities for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) so that they can learn the curriculum successfully.
• Leaders and those responsible for governance should strengthen their oversight of the curriculum and teaching to ensure that pupils are learning well, including those who are disadvantaged, and including those with SEND.

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