OUR Lady’s Catholic Primary School, Latchford, Warrington, has been awarded the prestigious Primary Science Quality Mark (PSQM) that recognises the school’s dedication to delivering quality science education to the 144 pupils it serves.
The PSQM, run by the University of Hertfordshire, is a nationally recognised accreditation that celebrates a commitment to developing excellence in science leadership, curriculum design, teaching and learning.
Our Lady’s has been awarded the quality mark following a year-long programme and final review in which the school had to demonstrate a clear vision for science through an engaging curriculum that provides hands-on investigative opportunities, the promotion of pupil voice, and how science is showcased across the school community.
The Wash Lane school, which is part of the Holy Family Catholic Multi Academy Trust (HFCMAT), also had to evidence impact on pupil’s learning and attitudes, as well as plans for continued improvement.
Head of school David Gilby said: “We are incredibly proud to receive the Primary Science Quality Mark. This achievement reflects the hard work and passion of our staff, particularly our science leader Miss Chloe Pickering, not to mention the enthusiasm our pupils show for the subject.
“At Our Lady’s we recognise the importance of science in every aspect of daily life and are excited to continue nurturing a love of scientific creativity and curiosity in the classroom.”
Miss Pickering led the journey to achieving the PSQM with the support of HFCMAT’s primary science lead, Mrs Donna Harris.
Within the final report, curriculum design was celebrated for being engaging, inclusive and strategically led. Reviewers also noted that the school had made significant strides in science teaching and learning that had been driven by strong leadership and collaboration across the school and trust.
The report highlighted that Our Lady’s has much to celebrate and enjoy, stating: “The school community is developing effective practice in providing an inspiring education.
“Children have had access to a range of enrichment experiences…science is very high profile now and everyone at Our Lady’s has embraced the changes.”
The PSQM also includes a professional development element that equips primary science subject leaders with the knowledge, capability and support needed to raise the profile of science across the whole school.
Reflecting on the year-long journey, Miss Pickering, said: “Science at Our Lady’s has truly transformed over the past year. PSQM has been challenging at times, but what an incredible journey we have been on to secure this achievement with the invaluable support of Donna Harris.
“I am so grateful for the effort and hard work the teachers have put in to ensure fantastic change and impact on pupil engagement and outcomes in science.”
