Inspectors find a ‘happy family’ at St Mary’s

Ofsted inspectors who called at St Mary’s RC Primary in Middleton earlier this month found it to be a happy, friendly and welcoming place that takes good care of its pupils.

The inspectors, who judged the school to be providing a good education for its pupils, sat in on 15 lessons and also held meetings with staff, governors, pupils and some parents and carers.

Inspectors highlighted the outstanding progress that pupils have made in English and the consistently good teaching in the Early Years Foundation Stage that enables children who arrive with low skills to make significant improvement.

Inspectors also commented that the school has a strong focus on personal, social and emotional development and speaking and listening. This is reflected in one comment from a pupil who stated “we are like one happy family”.

Inspectors are confident that the school knows its strengths and weaknesses and saw a strong determination from the Headteacher and senior management team to bring about improvement in attainment for mathematics so that it matches the success in English.

Headteacher Martin Atkins said: "We are really pleased with the report. All the positives highlighted by the inspectors are a result of the hard work that takes place every day at St Mary’s from everyone in the school and involved with the school. However, we still want it to be even better and that’s what we will continue to work for.”

Councillor Teresa Fitzsimons, Cabinet Member for Children, Schools and Families, said:
“St Mary’s Primary school staff have to be congratulated for their dedication to the education of their pupils as shown by comments made in the inspection report. I wish the pupils well in their continued hard work.”