St Thomas’ CofE Primary School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is a good school Leaders and governors have sustained the good quality of education in the school since the last inspection. Leaders, governors and staff have high expectations for pupils' achievement. The positive relationships that are at the heart of the school create a happy and purposeful environment in which pupils thrive.

Leaders have brought about improvement to pupils' progress and the standards that they reach in reading, writing and mathematics. Pupils make good progress because of effective teaching by staff who know their capabilities well. Occasionally, work is not matched closely enough to the needs of some middle-ability pupils.

Staff use ...their expert knowledge to plan activities that capture pupils' interests and promote their learning well. Published results for 2017 and provisional results for 2018 show that pupils reach standards above those of other pupils nationally in reading, writing and mathematics. Pupils say that they feel safe in school and leaders ensure that safeguarding arrangements are effective.

Pupils' behaviour is exemplary. Their conduct in lessons and around school is of a high standard. They have very positive attitudes to their learning.

Pupils enjoy school and make good strides in their personal development. They show respect for others. Some pupils' understanding of faiths and cultures other than their own is limited.

Leadership of subjects other than English and mathematics is developing. It is not fully effective in promoting further improvement. Parents and carers speak highly of the school.

They typically comment on the caring and inclusive ethos of the school and their children's good progress. Leaders provide a broad and interesting curriculum that captures pupils' interests and promotes their good progress. This is enriched by regular visits and after-school activities.

The early years is well led. Children in Nursery and Reception classes make good progress from their starting points.

Information about this school

This is an average-sized primary school.

The large majority of pupils are of White British heritage. The proportion of disadvantaged pupils eligible for the pupil premium is well below the national average. The proportion of pupils who have SEN and/or disabilities is below average.

The proportion of pupils who have an education, health and care plan is average. The school is designated as a Church of England primary school. The school's last section 48 inspection took place in October 2014.