St Thomas CE Primary Halliwell given positive SIAMS report

St Thomas' CE Primary School in Halliwell underwent a Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools (SIAMS) report on June 24 this year. 

The SIAMS inspection, conducted by The National Society (Church of England and Church in Wales), praised the school's "broad, rich" curriculum and its values. 

Inspector Anne Barker said: "St Thomas’ Primary School is the hub of the local community. Visitors receive a warm, friendly welcome and feel enveloped by the distinctly Christian ethos.

"The school’s well-established Christian vision is promoted through beautiful artwork and vibrant displays. This ensures it exists as a living reality, which is depicted in images around school of pupils turning words into deeds. 

"Curriculum development is driven by the Christian vision. The ‘let your light shine’ curriculum is crafted to ensure learning is rich, purposeful and highly relevant to pupils’ lives. 

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"The ‘11 Before 11’ initiative involves pupils designing curriculum content. They choose learning experiences including, studying the stars at night. They visit an observatory and wonder at the night sky on overnight visits to the countryside."

She added: "Pupils say all are valued in school and everyone is free to make their own choices. The vision and values drive the behaviour policy with high expectations of everyone.

"As a result, the behaviour of pupils is exemplary. ‘Wellbeing Champions’ look out for those who feel sad or lonely. They approach peers on the ‘buddy bench’ to ask them to play.

"These caring relationships lead to happy children and harmonious social times. 

"The vision and values result in an active culture of justice and responsibility. Pupils have a keen sense of injustice and are not afraid to take courageous actions to protect others." 

The inspection took place earlier this year (Image: St Thomas' CE Primary School)

The report added: "They temper this with their considered approach to forgiveness saying, ‘Christians believe, Jesus forgave those who were against him.’

"Pupils enjoy taking on leadership roles in school. ‘Agents of Change’ improve the natural environment by litter picking in the local area."

Headteacher, Abigail Fielden, said: "I am immensely proud of our school community for the wonderful SIAMS report we have received.

"This achievement is a testament to the dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment of our staff, pupils, and families. It reflects our collective effort to uphold and live out our Christian values daily.

"Together, we will continue to nurture a compassionate, inspiring, and inclusive environment for all our pupils, and will continue to encourage them all to let their light shine!"