St James' Catholic Primary School Hattersley

St. James’ Catholic Primary School, Hattersley, is a smaller than average VA school which belongs to The Diocese of Shrewsbury and is situated in Tameside LA. We are adjacent to the M67 Motorway, the nearest town being Hyde.  The school opened in the 1960’s on a large Manchester overspill estate which was established to re-house tenants from  East Manchester.  The socio-economic circumstances of the area are below average but our children and their families are friendly, extremely keen to learn. 

The school is a large two storey building set in extensive grounds with magnificent views over the surrounding countryside.  There are at present over 200 children in the school. Our Nursery has 26 places - part time – mornings only. The school is single form entry and most of our classes are full. The school, and indeed the whole surrounding area, is in a state of change due to the regeneration of Hattersley. Large areas are being demolished to make way for brand new housing (rented and owner/occupier) which should lead to exciting times and a boost in numbers. The school also attracts pupils from beyond the estate as parents choose to have their child educated in a Catholic Primary School.

In a recent Ofsted report (June 2021) the school was described as an “happy, caring, supportive place to be".

The School Mission Statement aims to provide a caring environment where all pupils and staff are recognised as children of God. Gospel values are taught so that every individual has the opportunity to grow in faith and reach their full potential.  Pupils are encouraged to become responsible, happy and confident members of society.  School aims to share with parents and parish the responsibility for developing the “whole child” – socially, emotionally, intellectually, spiritually and sacramentally. We serve the parish of St. James the Great and our church is situated next to the school which enhances relationships between school and parish. Many parents and grandparents are former pupils of the school.