school brochure 2022 v2

SCHOOL PROSPECTUS

ST MARY’S R.C. PRIMARY SCHOOL

Victoria Road, Horwich, Bolton, BL6 6EP
(01204) 333625

[email protected]
https://www.st-marys-horwich.bolton.sch.uk/

Headteacher
Mrs D Hayes

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Welcome!

If you are considering applying for a place at St Mary’s then we hope that the information in the
following pages encourage you to choose us as your child’s primary school. If you already have a
child here, then we are delighted to continue the links between us. I sincerely hope that you, your
children and your family have a very happy time here as part of our school family.
Home, school and parish together form a valuable and important partnership. In a caring, Catholic
atmosphere we encourage our children to develop and mature in the light of the Gospel values with
a Christian concern for others. The family of St Mary’s school is very special and is a place where
every child is known, cherished and encouraged to be their best. God has given each of us special
talents and here at St Mary’s we strive to provide numerous opportunities for all of us to reach our
potential and for each of us to become the best we can be. This we do relentlessly and always with
a St Mary’s smile!
We promise that the children will experience a broad and balanced curriculum which will stimulate,
challenge and excite them to become curious learners.
We are confident that all members of our school community, staff, governors, parents, Father
Richard our Parish Priest and the parishioners of St Mary’s will be able to work together for the
benefit of all our children in a spirit of mutual trust, respect, understanding and love. Our ambition
for all our children is for them to be happy, confident, successful and resilient individuals who will
grow up to be inspirational and carting adults.
If you need to know anything more at all about St Mary’s, please do not hesitate to ring, email or
come and see us at the office. We wish you and your child every success and happiness as we
embark on our journey together through the years ahead here at St Mary’s.
The governors, pupils and staff of St Mary’s welcome you to our school family.
With kind regards,

Dominique Hayes
Head teacher

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Introducing St Mary’s

St Mary’s is a voluntary aided primary (4 – 11) co-educational school attached to the parish of St
Mary’s, Chorley New Rd, Horwich, Bolton in the Diocese of Salford. There are 215 pupils currently
on roll (September 2021) and we have a standard number of 30 places per year group in Foundation
Stage and Key Stage 1 with 32 places per year group in Key Stage 2.

The site on which the school now stands was originally opened as Holy Family School in 1894. In
1996 Holy Family School was amalgamated with ‘Our Lady of the Rosary Primary School’ to create
St. Mary's, taking the parish name. The two schools occupied two different sites until May 1st 2002
when, after a major building project, they came together on this one site. Since then the school has
had two further major building projects to create a learning environment that meets the needs of the
children.

The school is near the centre of Horwich and is a vital part of the
Parish community. It is very closely situated to our feeder
secondary school, St. Joseph's, with whom there are excellent
links.

There is a bright central hall, which is used for assemblies,
masses, lunch, physical education and other school activities.
The school employs state of the art equipment in a modern
setting in order to cater for pupils from Reception age to Year 6.
We do not have our own Nursery but have strong links with over
twelve separate Nursery providers.

We have a wealth of additional resources such as a
chaplaincy room, prayer garden, library, football
pitch, ICT suite and equipment, break-out areas for
group work and curriculum storage areas. We place
particular emphasis on outdoor learning and are
fortunate to have a small allotment.

Many parents attended the school and indeed some
grandparents have been pupils.

The parish has a great pride in the school and one
of its hallmarks is the quality of relationships which
exist among staff, parents and parishioners. This is
thanks to the commitment of our Parish Priest, Father Richard Howard and our previous Parish
Priests, Deacon Harry Jones, Father John Daly and Father Barry O’Sullivan.

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OUR MISSION STATEMENT

We care, we pray, we work, we play,

…in Jesus’ way

Our Mission Statement captures our Catholic mission and helps to demonstrate how we aim to be
a beacon for excellence in education. This information sets out how we will achieve this by
focusing on the four elements of our statement. For each element we summarise what our
mission is, what our strategic goals are and how we hope to achieve these.
The key guiding principle of our mission is that we do it ‘…in Jesus’ way’, which is our core value.
It is this that makes us unique and differentiates St Mary’s, as a Catholic school, from others in
Horwich.

Our Values

“In Jesus’ way”
Our mission, and that of the Catholic Church, is guided by the eight blessings recounted by Jesus
in the Sermon on the Mount and recorded in the Gospel of Matthew; these are known as the
Beatitudes;
Everything we do is grounded in the person of Jesus and his teachings. Our mission, therefore, is
the driving force, the expression of all that we are and do, think and feel.

“We Care”
We Care and aim to develop a community based
upon the Gospel values, in which the children
feel happy, valued, secure and confident so that
they can fully take part in the life of the school.
Our first duty is to safeguard our children and we
will do this through strict adherence to our
safeguarding and child protection policy. We
will strive to ensure that all pupils remain safe
and free from harm and we are committed to
playing a full and active part in the multi-agency
response to child protection concerns.
The academic outcomes we expect for children
entrusted to our care can only be achieved if
we have an outstanding partnership with the
parents and guardians of our children.
All staff aim to deliver the best outcomes and experiences for the children entrusted to our care.
Our caring mission extends to all our staff, they should expect a safe and supportive working
environment, typified by a friendly greeting in the morning, support at the end of the day and a
collaborative approach to teaching as part of the school community.
Our volunteers set a real example to our children by demonstrating the gift of giving time to help
others. Through volunteering, they support the teaching staff in delivering improved outcomes for
our children.

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Our caring mission is therefore to celebrate the role of our volunteers and make them feel
welcomed as core members of the school’s family.

“We Pray”

We Pray that this is a school where children kno

w God and get to meet Him every day. A place
where children are involved and take part in
teaching and learning which will encourage a
sense of wonder and response to God’s gift of
life and creation. A place where everyone feels
fully involved in the opportunities provided for
prayer, worship and liturgy. At St Mary’s, we
love and thank God for our time together and
worship Him daily. We strive to fully exploit
every opportunity to develop, deepen and
strengthen our relationship with God through
our curriculum, worship and prayer.

“We Work”
We Work to ensure that the curriculum provided for our

children is broad and balanced so that they can grow in

knowledge and understanding. We work to develop the

skills which will enable all children throughout the ability

range to achieve their full potential. We use a Growth

Mind-set attitude to create resilient and curious learners.

A Catholic school should, in its academic standards, be at

least as good as other schools in the area. This goal is set

in the Canon Law of the Church (Canon 806 §2). However
St Mary’s goes further and requires that the school is
“distinguished”.
At St Mary’s, we acknowledge this goal and welcome all
children, regardless of background and capability, and

invite them to become full, active participants in the faith

life of the school, challenging them as individuals to achieve high academic outcomes.

“We Play”
We Play in harmony. We see ourselves as a loving
and happy community following Christ’s way and aim
to promote all aspects of the physical and emotional
well-being of each child.
We recognise that academic achievement is only
part of a child’s development and that play forms a
key role in learning and developing a rounded
person. Our mission sets play at the heart of
learning and aims to ensure that all children
experience and enjoy play to the best of their ability.
Play allows children to use their creativity while
developing their imagination, dexterity, and physical, cognitive, and emotional strength .Play is
important to healthy brain development. It is through play that children at a very early age engage
and interact in the world around them.

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Staffing Structure – September 2022

Headteacher Mrs D Hayes
Deputy Headteacher Mrs S Shaw
EYFS: Reception Miss E Burke

KS1: Year 1 Mrs C Hesketh
Year 2 Miss N Loftus

KS2: Year 3 Miss M Roby
Year 4 Mrs S Shaw / Mrs D Ford
Year 5 Mrs G Harvey
Year 6 Mrs L Speakman
Mrs L Gubbins

HLTAs: Mrs E Christian
Mrs L Makinson
TAs: Mrs L Wallace
Mrs T Watkiss
SPECIAL NEEDS COORDINATOR
SCHOOL BUSINESS MANAGER: Miss N Cornwell
ADMINISTRATION ASSISTANT: Miss A McGarr
SITE MANAGER: Mrs J Sherlock
Mrs L Smethurst
Miss M Moorcroft

Mrs S Shaw

Mrs E Travers

Mrs K Merga

Mr A Hartop

SMSAs: Mrs K McCaffery
Mrs U Coward
OUT OF SCHOOL CLUB: Manager Mrs J Turnbull
Assistant Manager Miss D Perritt
Childcare Assistants Miss M Moorcroft
Mrs K Fielding
FRENCH TEACHER
6|Page Mrs E Travers
Mrs J Walker
Mrs J Horsfield
Mrs M May
Mrs A McHugh
Miss D Perritt
Mrs H Thomasson

Madame Carr

Governors – September 2022

Chair of Governors: Mrs L Gillies
Vice Chair: Mr S Carr

Foundation Governors: Father Richard Howard
Mr Laurie Lane
Mrs Olivia Leeson
Mrs R Good
Mr T Hodgson
Mrs H Higgins

Parent Governor: Mr R Nix
Mrs Irene Tomkins
Staff Governor:
Miss E Burke
LA Governor: Mrs D Hayes (Headteacher)
Diocese:
Clerk to the Governors: Mr Philip Jackson

Father Richard Howard

Mrs C Brooks

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School Organisation

Doors Open at 8:45 8.55am
School Starts:

Mid-morning Break: 10:15am – 10:30am EYFS to Y4 inclusive)
Lunch Break: 10.30am – 10.45am (Y5 and Y6)
School Finishes:
12noon – 1pm (EYFS to Y4 inclusive)
12.15pm – 1.15pm (Y5 and Y6)

3.15pm

Lunch Times

There are two lunchtime arrangements:
1. School meals are available and are currently free to children in Foundation, Year 1 and Year
2 under the Government’s Universal Infant Free School Meals initiative. School dinners for
pupils in KS2 cost £2.30 daily/£11.50 weekly. Parents are reminded that they should still
apply for Free School Meals via the Local Authority, if entitled – irrespective of the age of the
child. The school receives extra funding for pupils who are eligible for statutory free meals.
2. Healthy packed lunches may be brought in and eaten on the premises.

Assemblies / Masses/ Collective Acts of Worship

Whole school worship assembly takes place on Monday mornings. Hymn Practice is on Wednesday
mornings and Celebration assembly is on Friday mornings. Other opportunities for Key Stages to
gather together to take part in Mass or collective acts of worship are afforded at different times
during the Church’s liturgical year.

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School Holidays 2022 – 2023

Autumn Term 2022 – 72 days
School re-opens Tuesday 6th September 2022
Break up for half-term Friday 21st October 2022
School re-opens Tuesday 1st November 2022
School closes Thursday 22nd December 2022 (2.00 p.m.)

Spring Term 2023 - 55 days
School re-opens Monday 9th January 2023
Break up for half-term Friday 17th February 2023
School re-opens Monday 27th February 2023
School closes Friday 31st March 2023 (2.00 p.m.)

Summer Term 2023 – 63 days
School re-opens Monday 17th April 2023
Bank Holiday (closed) Monday 1st May 2023
Break up for half-term
Thursday 25th May 2023
School re-opens Monday 5th June 2023
School closes Friday 21st July 2023 (2.00 p.m.)

Staff INSET Days:
Monday 5th September 2022
Monday 31st October 2022
Friday 26th May 2023 plus 4 x twilight sessions to be confirmed
Pupil Days: 190

Attendance and Holidays

Our school’s Educational Welfare Officer, checks attendance registers on a regular basis. Under
national regulations, all absences are recorded as ‘Authorised’ or ‘Unauthorised’. Children who are
late must report to the school office and may be given either an absent mark or late mark depending
on the time of their arrival.

Please ensure that you inform school on the first day of your child’s absence and, on the return to
school, please send in a written note or email the school office.

If you need to take your child out of school for any reason, please call at the office.

Holiday Absence

The right to authorise holiday leave rests with the school, not with parents. Head teachers should
not grant leave of absence unless there are exceptional circumstances. A letter of application must
be made in advance and the head teacher must be satisfied that there are exceptional
circumstances based on the individual facts and circumstances of the case which warrant the leave.
Where a leave of absence is granted, the head teacher will determine the number of days a pupil
can be away from school. A leave of absence is granted entirely at the head teacher’s discretion.

HOLIDAYS WILL ONLY BE AUTHORISED UNDER EXCEPTIONAL CIRCUMSTANCES

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Transition into EYFS Class

Children enter St Mary’s with a wide range of different experiences. They have already learnt so
much from their families and have varied interests and skills. We work hard to extend their skills,
develop their confidence and build on what they know.

We have a carefully tailored transition programme for all children that are welcomed into EYFS.
This includes:

 New Parents’ Information Evening
 Visits into EYFS Class for children in the summer term preceding admission to school
 Visits from the EYFS teacher to the child’s pre-school setting
 ‘Getting to know you’ sessions in September for parents and children to attend school in small

groups to help build bonds.
 Reduced timetable for the first two weeks in EYFS in order for staff to get to know each child

well
 Seeds and Gardeners – A partnership with Year 6 children to support EYFS

During the day, the children take part in different activities that cover all aspects of the EYFS
curriculum. This can be as a whole class, in small groups or individually. Learning through play is
at the forefront of the EYFS curriculum and is essential for your child’s all round physical,
emotional, intellectual and social development.

The four principles of EYFS

A unique child. Every child is a unique child, who is constantly learning and can be resilient,
capable, confident and self-assured.
Positive relationships. Children learn to be strong and independent through positive relationships.
Enabling environments.
Learning and development

The EYFS Curriculum

This divided into PRIME areas – these focus on the core aspects of
child development.
Communication & Language
Personal, Social and Emotional development
Physical Development
The SPECIFIC areas focus on the academic development
Literacy
Mathematics
Understanding the World
Expressive Arts and Design

Assessment

During the year, staff continually make observations and assessments in order to check progress.
We use Tapestry to support the different observations and these can be shared with parents on a
weekly basis. All parents are sent a link at the beginning of the first term and this gives parents
access to all of their child’s observations.

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Care and support

We operate a number of schemes in school which aim to ensure that older pupils are responsible
whilst, at the same time, younger pupils are put at ease and made to feel welcome as part of the St
Mary’s family. Our ‘Seeds and Gardeners’ partnership, enables Year 6 to mentor a member of our
new EYFS. All the children involved benefit from the shared playtimes and prayer times.

Our Pupil Leadership Teams create a sense of responsibility in children and inspire them ‘to make
a difference’. These include our Year 6 prefects, School Council members, Caritas Ambassadors,
Eco-Warriors, Science Ambassadors, Sports Leaders and Pupil Chaplain/G.I.F.T. Team. Those
elected to be part of these systems undertake a variety of tasks and activities designed to give them
a sense of being part of a family. Examples of activities undertaken are the G.I.F.T Team leading
mediations and school council leading assemblies and representing the school.

What inspectors said about St Mary’s:

‘Pupils and staff agree that this is a happy and welcoming school.
Through a variety of leadership roles, pupils develop their character. Pupil chaplains spoke with pride
about their charitable fundraising and visits to the elderly. Science ambassadors lead whole-school
science activities. Pupils enjoy regular residential trips, with adventurous activities such as climbing
and archery. Pupils develop as thoughtful and independent individuals.’

Ofsted March2020

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Health and Wellbeing

Medical Matters

If your child has a serious or recurring medical problem, it is important that we know about it in case
a problem arises in school. Please inform the Headteacher of any such problems. If your child
needs regular medication, please discuss the arrangements with the Headteacher beforehand.
Children should NEVER bring any medicine to school without our knowledge. Children suffering
from sickness or diarrhea should stay home and not return to school until they have been well for
48 hours. We consult the Local Health Authority’s Communicable diseases table, and advise
parents accordingly when more serious illnesses have been diagnosed.

If your child becomes ill at school, we always try to contact parents by telephone to arrange for you

to collect them. Normal first aid is available in school for minor accidents, but for cases of real

emergency, it is vital that we have a telephone contact number for every child. Hospitals are

unwilling to administer treatment if a parent is not present. We also need to know the name of your
child’s family doctor.

When your child is absent from school, it is essential that you let us know on the first day of absence
and telephone each day that they are absent.

For routine hospital and clinic appointments, children can be collected from the office by prior
arrangement. A copy of appointment cards should be given to the office. We cannot allow children
to leave school alone to meet a parent for an appointment. If there are any changes in routine (e.g.
car breakdown), a telephone call will enable us to meet your wishes and safeguard your child. Where
ever possible, routine medical appointments should be made outside school hours.

Your child will receive sight, hearing and dental checks.

School has 4 qualified first aiders.

Your local school clinic is: Bolton School Nursing Service
Great Lever Health Centre
Rupert Street
Great Lever
Bolton
BL3 6 RN
Tel: (01204) 463683

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School Uniform

We feel that our school uniform contributes to a sense of belonging to the school family. It also
helps our children to realise that their school is a place of purpose.

The uniform at St Mary’s consists of:
 Burgundy sweatshirt or cardigan with the school logo – no other logo is permitted.
 White polo shirt (preferably with school logo – no other logo is permitted).
 Grey school trousers, pinafore dress or skirt.
 Grey tights can be worn as part of the winter uniform.
 Red and white check gingham dress (summer uniform)
 Grey shorts (summer uniform)
 White or grey socks
 Sensible black leather school shoes (no trainers or sandals)

The PE kit at St Mary’s consists of:
 a plain white t-shirt, navy loose blue shorts and trainers (no leggings or cycling shorts).
 a burgundy school tracksuit with school logo on the hoodie and plain bottoms
(sweatshirts/cardigans may be worn as an alternative to a hoodie).
 for EYFS, PE kits should be kept in school in a suitable drawstring PE bag with pumps.

Y1-Y6 pupils are able to attend school in their PE kit and school tracksuit on the day they
have PE lessons. Please ensure that shorts are available for every PE lesson. Children can
wear them under their tracksuit or bring them in book bags on their PE days.

All uniform must be labelled with the child’s name. Uniform which is ordered via the school’s supplier
has the child’s name pre-printed on the label which saves a lot of worry and expense. We expect
children to be able to dress and undress themselves for PE (help will be given to young children if
necessary). Old shirts or pinafores are helpful for art/craft.

Footwear - For health and safety reasons the children should come to school in sensible black
leather school shoes without heels or sling back type shoes. Pumps or suitable trainers are needed
for PE and sports. Children must always wear socks.

Hair – Children are expected to have appropriate hairstyles. Extreme hairstyles are unacceptable,
as are hair motifs, gelled and dyed hair. Ribbons or clips should be discrete and in school colours.

All pupils should use school book bags which can be purchased from the office. We cannot store
large cases or duffle bags on pegs in the classrooms.

Jewellery in School

In the interests of health and safety:
 Chains, pendants, bracelets, bangles, rings, nose studs and other similar items are not
allowed.
 Earrings are not allowed to be worn in school.
 Children are not allowed to wear nail varnish.
 Watches are allowed as long as they do not have a camera.

Mobile phones
Mobile phones are not allowed in school, except for pupils in Years 5 and 6, unless under special
circumstances. Children in upper KS2 who do bring phones must hand them in to the class teacher
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who will keep them in a safe place until school finishes. Mobile phones must be switched off and
not used once through the school gates and on the school grounds.

Supporting Learning

Special Needs

At St Mary’s, we recognise that each one of us is unique, special and created by God. We aim to
nurture our children’s development and encourage them to reach their potential. Special educational
needs and disabilities (SEND) can affect a child’s ability to learn. This can affect their:

 behaviour and ability to socialise
 reading, writing and maths progress
 ability to understand things
 concentration levels
 physical ability

We follow the guidelines of the Special Needs Code of Practice when identifying and coordinating
provision for children with special needs. We aim to work closely with parents when communicating
concerns and supporting children.

St Mary’s School has a designated member of staff with responsibility for special needs and
disabilities and a learning mentor. If you feel your child has special needs, the first point of contact
is their class teacher who will seek the advice of the Special Educational Needs Coordinator
(SENCO)

Encouraging Positive Behaviour

St Mary’s seeks to create a happy atmosphere of mutual respect between everyone in our school
family. The most important rule is the school’s mission statement:

‘We care, we pray, we work, we play in Jesus’ way’.
We expect pupils to behave sensibly. Children should come to school ready to work and do their
best. We expect high standards of behaviour in school at all times. Bad language, bullying, stealing
and aggression towards others are not acceptable.

The school has a behaviour policy which incorporates an anti-bullying policy. Every class has
developed their own rules. These are displayed prominently. If there are any problems in school
we will contact you at an early stage. If you have any concerns or worries, please come to see us
straight away. We want to work together, with you and your child, to solve any difficulties as soon
as possible.

Homework

We have a homework policy, which is available to parents. Every child has a home/school reading
record and it helps if parents share books and read with their children regularly. Children in Y1-Y6
have written work or spellings, learning tables, or finding out information. In the interests of your
child, we ask that you support your child’s learning at home. Academic research points strongly to
the fact that supervision by a parent can greatly help and encourage a child and that taking this kind
of interest greatly enhances a child’s life chances.

Sports and Extra-Curricular Activities

St Mary’s pupils are involved in numerous after school clubs and activities throughout the year. We
have had many school clubs this year. Here are just a few; football, netball, basketball, tennis,
sketch club, young explorers, JAM club, young writers, science club, BEEBOTS.

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Breakfast Club and After School Childcare

St Mary’s has a thriving ‘Out of School Club.’ The on-site ‘before and after school’ childcare provision

has grown in popularity. The Club is Ofsted registered (ref:105250), based in the school hall and is

staffed by fully qualified Childcare Assistants.

Opening times: Breakfast Club 7.30am – 8.55am
After School Club 3.15pm – 6.00pm

Breakfast will be available between 7.30am – 8.45am and includes choices such as toast, cereals,
croissants, yoghurt, breakfast bars and juice/milk/water.

Afternoon snack will be available every day with a varied choice including sandwiches, wraps,
crumpets, noodles, hot dogs, ice cream, popcorn, pancakes and jelly. Every day an assortment of
activities will be available for the children based upon the links to the class curriculum topics for that
term. These may include:

 Art & craft
 Music
 Sport
 Board games, jigsaws, colouring
 Homework corner
 Book corner
 ICT

The Out of School Club is mainly based in the school hall/ICT suite, although this may vary if there

is a school activity taking place. In this case, the library areas or classrooms may also be used.

When weather is permitting, the clubs have access to our outdoor play areas. The Out of School
Club is open for all children attending St Mary’s RC Primary. There is no holiday provision at the

setting.

To obtain further information concerning our ‘Out of School Club’, please request a form via the
school office on (01204) 333625 or refer to the school website.

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The Curriculum

St Mary’s RC Primary School National Curriculum
Teachers and pupils at St Mary’s RC School follow the National Curriculum (Sept 2014). The main
intent of the Government is to raise standards. The National Curriculum is designed to be
challenging, with the content focusing on essential core subject knowledge and skills. St Mary’s RC
Primary implements a broad and balanced curriculum with high academic/vocational/technical
ambition for all pupils. We have built a curriculum with appropriate coverage, content, structure and
sequencing. The impact is that we aim to enable all groups and individuals to acquire the
knowledge and cultural capital they need to succeed in life.

Religious Education
St Mary’s is a school where children make good to outstanding progress in all areas of the curriculum
including RE. The RE scheme used is based on guidance from the Salford Diocese; it very much
reflects the school’s mission. We consider RE to be more than a core subject; it is the core of the
core! RE is delivered through ‘Come and See’ lessons, discussion, class liturgies, Lectio Divina,
whole school worship and Masses. The school incorporates the 5 W’s outlined below into all aspects
of our school life:

English
The overarching aim for English at St Mary’s is to promote high standards of Literacy by equipping
pupils with a strong command of the spoken and written word, and to develop their love of literature
through widespread reading for enjoyment and for information. There is a strong emphasis on
vocabulary development, grammar, punctuation and spelling. Handwriting is expected to be fluent,
legible and speedy.
We aim to ensure that all pupils read easily, fluently and with good understanding, but most
important we wish to instil in our children a love of reading and as a key tool for learning. Pupils are
expected to write clearly, accurately and coherently adapting their language and style in and for a
range of contexts. Pupils will be encouraged to take part in debates, make formal presentations and
elaborate and explain their understanding and ideas clearly. Every year we have a ‘Book Week’
where the whole school becomes immersed in one text. The school is transformed by creative
homework and class tasks to help inspire exciting reading and writing.

Maths
Mathematics is a creative subject that is essential to everyday life. Through access to a high quality
education, children are encouraged to become fluent in the fundamentals of mathematics through
frequent, varied practice using concrete resources (including basic skills, maths games and the use
of IT). They are also given opportunities to reason mathematically by enquiring, justifying and
forming relationships and solving a range of problems.
The National Curriculum is challenging: 5 year olds are expected to understand and use numbers
to 20. They learn number bonds to 20 - pairs of numbers that make 20. Simple Fractions (¼ and ½)
are taught from Key Stage 1 (Year 1) and by the end of Primary School children should be able to
convert decimal fractions to simple fractions (e.g. 0.6 =3/5). By the age of nine, children are expected
to know times tables up to 12 x 12.

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Science
At St Mary’s we follow the National Curriculum programme of study for Science. We believe that
children should be engaged and motivated to study science through stimulating and practical
lessons. We aim to ensure all pupils develop scientific knowledge and understanding of concepts,
whilst relating it to the real world. We also aim to develop in the children different types of scientific
enquiry through investigations and practical work as often as possible, allowing the pupils to find
things out for themselves. We promote STEM activities that link science with other subjects, giving
the pupils an understanding of the uses and implications of science in the world.

Geography
Our geography education is designed to inspire in pupils a curiosity and fascination about the world
and its people that will remain with them for the rest of their lives. The curriculum reflects the school’s
local context. We are building a rich and relevant curriculum with appropriate coverage, content,
structure and sequencing, contributing to outstanding learning and achievement. Pupils, and
particular groups of pupils, have planned educational experiences in geography and these ensure
that they are well equipped for the next stage of their education. Pupils’ high levels of literacy,
appropriate to their age, contribute to their learning and achievement. The subject makes an
outstanding contribution to pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development. We aim to equip
pupils with knowledge about their locality but also diversity of places, people, resources and natural
and human environments, together with a deep understanding of the Earth’s key physical and
human processes. As pupils progress, their growing knowledge about the world will help them to
deepen their understanding of the interaction between physical and human processes, and the
formation and use of landscapes and environments. We pride ourselves in being an eco-friendly
school.

History
Our comprehensive history education will help pupils gain a coherent knowledge of Britain’s past
and that of the wider world. It will inspire pupils’ curiosity to know more about the past including
local history. Teaching will equip pupils to ask perceptive questions, think critically, weigh evidence,
sift arguments, and develop perspective and judgement. History helps pupils to understand the
complexity of people’s lives, the process of change, the diversity of societies and relationships
between different groups, as well as their own identity and the challenges of their time. The subject
makes a valuable contribution to pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development. Practice
in learning and teaching of History reflects the highest expectations of staff and the highest
aspirations for pupils, including disabled pupils and those with special educational needs.

Design/Technology
Design and Technology gives children the opportunity to develop skill, knowledge and
understanding of designing and making functional products. At St Mary’s, we feel it is vital to nurture
creativity and innovation through design, and by exploring the designed and made world in which
we all live and work. Pupils need to build and apply a repertoire of knowledge, understanding and
skills in order to design and make high quality prototypes and products for a range of users. They
will then need to evaluate and test their ideas and products. Furthermore, pupils need to understand
and apply the principles of nutrition and learn how to cook. Certificates are given out termly to
promote Design & Technology.

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Computing
The computing curriculum equips pupils to use computational thinking and creativity to understand
and change the world. The core of computing is computer science, in which pupils are taught the
principles of information and computation, how digital systems work, and how to put this knowledge
to use through programming. Building on this knowledge and understanding, pupils are equipped to
use information technology to create programs, systems and a range of content. Computing also
ensures that pupils become digitally literate – able to use, and express themselves and develop
their ideas through, information and communication technology – at a level suitable for the future
workplace and as active participants in a digital world.

Art and Design
Throughout the school Art and Design are covered within the context of cross curricular links with
other subjects in the termly planning. Basic art skills are taught including sketching, shading,
painting, mixing colours, producing clay sculptures and collage. A range of media are used and a
variety of techniques, e.g. batique, montage. Children are encouraged to produce their own ideas
and every child’s work is deemed special and noteworthy. Termly certificates are given out to reward
effort and achievements.

Music
Music is a universal language that embodies one of the highest forms of creativity. The first class
music education provided at St Mary’s should engage and inspire our pupils to develop a love of
music and their talent as musicians, and so increase their self-confidence, creativity and sense of
achievement. As pupils progress, they will develop a critical engagement with music, allowing them
to compose, and to listen to music with discernment. The school works closely with Bolton Music
Service to enhance pupils’ experience and provide pupils with wider opportunities.

Languages
A modern foreign language is mandatory in Key Stage 2. At St Mary’s, French is taught throughout
the school from Reception to Y6 by specialist teacher Madame Carr. By the end of Year 6, children
will be expected to master basic grammar and accurate pronunciation and to converse, present,
read and write in the language. Children love to learn about the French culture and Madame Carr
shares her experiences of festivals and celebrations in France.

PE
All pupils are inspired to succeed and excel in competitive sport and other physically demanding
activities. St Mary’s provides opportunities for pupils to become physically confident in a way which
supports their health and fitness. Opportunities to compete in sport and other activities build
character and help to embed values such as fairness and respect. St Mary’s has close links to Bolton
Arena, St Joseph’s High School and Rivington and Blackrod High School. Competitions and sporting
opportunities are organised throughout the year by these three organisations.

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End of Key Stage Results

The tables below show the percentages of pupils achieving expected standard at the end of Key
Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 at St Mary’s RC Primary School in 2019. No formal Government tests

were held in summer 2020 or 2021 due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

Key Stage 1
The percentages of pupils who achieved expected in Reading, Writing, Maths, Science also

Reading, Writing and Maths combined at the end of Year 2 were above Bolton and National figures.

% reaching expected at end of St Mary’s Bolton National
KS1
Reading 86% 72% 75%
Writing 79% 68% 69%
Maths 86% 74% 76%
Science 90% 78% 82%
Reading/Writing/Maths 76% 64% 65%

The percentage of pupils reaching Greater Depth at the end of KS1 is above Bolton and National
figures for Reading, Writing and Maths. The Reading, Writing and Maths combined percentage for
those working at greater depth is slightly below Bolton and National figures.

% reaching GDS St Mary’s Bolton National
Reading 38% 23% 25%
Writing 17% 15% 15%
Maths 34% 21% 22%
Reading/writing/maths 10% 11% 11%

Key Stage 2
The percentages of pupils who achieved expected in Reading, Writing, Maths, Science also
Reading, Writing and Maths combined at the end of Year 6 in July 2019 are above both Bolton and
National figures.

% reaching expected end of St Mary’s Bolton National

KS2

Reading 84% 70% 73%

Writing 87% 78% 79%

Maths 94% 78% 79%

GPS 94% 79% 78%

Reading/Writing/Maths 74% 63% 65%

The percentage of pupils reaching Greater Depth Standard at the end of KS2 in Maths and Reading,

Writing and Maths combined are above both Bolton and National figures. The percentage number

of Y6 pupils working at Greater Depth in EGPS is well above Bolton and National figures. Reading

is above Bolton but below National figures. Writing is below both Bolton and National figures.

% reaching GDS St Mary’s Bolton National
Reading 26% 24% 27%
Writing 19% 21% 20%
Maths 35% 27% 27%
GPS 55% 38% 36%
Reading/writing/maths 16% 11% 11%

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Further Information

Reporting to Parents

Parents’ Evenings are held in the Autumn Term and Spring Term. One page summary reports are
also sent at this time. In the Summer Term, there is an opportunity to respond to or discuss your
child’s annual full written report.

Medium term plans, showing curriculum intent for the term/half term can be found on the school
website. These documents are also sent home each term/half term along with Knowledge
Organisers which show key learning and vocabulary that will be taught in particular subjects. The
school offers an open door policy. Please speak to your child’s class teacher if you have any
questions concerning learning and teaching. We are happy to help.

Safeguarding Children

Our school is absolutely committed to safeguarding the children in our care. Along with all schools,
we have an important part to play in the detection and prevention of child abuse. School follows
Bolton’s safeguarding procedures to ensure the safety and welfare of our children.

Educational Visits

A variety of educational visits are arranged – ranging from trips to farms and museums, to exhibitions
and musical opportunities. The school has a Charging and Remissions Policy.

Residential visits are important in supporting confident and independent learners. At St Mary’s we
have provided an overnight stay in school; a visit to the Anderton Centre, Rivington; a visit to
Lockerbie Manor, Scotland. The school reserves the right to change residential arrangements in the
best interests of the pupils.

Computers (Administration)

We have computers which use a database of information for school purposes. This will be held
internally and not disclosed to anybody outside school. Please discuss with the Headteacher if you
are concerned or need further information. We issue updated information to parents about this
every year.

Volunteers

Parents, grandparents and friends can help us in school in many different ways. We are grateful for
any expertise which a mum or dad may be able to offer e.g. sewing, baking, computing, library,
accompanying us on trips, art, pottery clay, display, sport, etc. Parents are actively involved in the
Sacramental preparation.

Contact Us

If any parent has any further questions or wishes to make a visit to St Mary’s having read the

prospectus, they should contact the school office using one of the options shown below:

 01204 333625

Email [email protected]

Further information about the school, can also be found on:

Website www.st-marys-horwich.bolton.sch.uk

Facebook StMarysRCPrimarySchoolHorwich

Twitter @StMarysHorwich

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