Notre Dame Catholic Primary School, located in London, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 2 and 3, 2023. The school fosters an environment where pupils are enthusiastic about learning and enjoy attending school. They engage actively in lessons, demonstrating a strong work ethic both individually and collaboratively. The school prioritizes the safety and well-being of its students, with pupils expressing trust in the staff to address any concerns they may have. The community spirit is highly valued by parents and carers, contributing to a positive atmosphere where making friends is easy. The school effectively addresses any instances of bullying, ensuring that issues are resolved promptly.
The behavior of pupils is commendable, with high expectations set by the adults in the school. Pupils exhibit calm and respectful behavior towards staff and peers, and they take pride in receiving recognition for positive conduct. The school promotes values such as friendship and honesty, which are reflected in the students' interactions. Leaders at the school provide numerous opportunities for pupils to explore their interests and talents, including participation in extracurricular activities like the school band and local sports teams. Educational trips and guest speakers further enrich the learning experience, exposing pupils to various professions and interests.
The curriculum at Notre Dame Catholic Primary School is ambitious and well-structured, allowing pupils to build their knowledge across a wide range of subjects over time. Leaders have carefully considered the interests of pupils and their preferred learning styles, particularly in the early years, where foundational skills are developed effectively. For instance, in mathematics, children learn essential concepts that prepare them for future learning in addition and subtraction. However, there are areas for improvement, as some subjects have not yet clearly defined the most critical content for pupils to learn, which can hinder the secure development of knowledge.
Staff members are dedicated to enhancing pupils' speaking and listening skills, integrating new vocabulary into lessons, and ensuring that learning is interconnected across subjects. Teachers regularly assess pupil progress and adapt lessons accordingly, reinforcing previous learning to support new concepts. The emphasis on early reading is a priority, with staff receiving training to deliver a consistent phonics program. This approach helps pupils acquire new sounds effectively, and additional support is provided for those who may fall behind.
The school also focuses on preparing pupils for life beyond the classroom, offering lessons on resilience, mental health, and first aid. Older pupils have opportunities to learn about democracy through visits to the Houses of Parliament, while activities like horse riding help build confidence. Staff express satisfaction with the support they receive from school leaders and appreciate the professional development opportunities available to them.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with comprehensive training ensuring that staff can identify at-risk pupils early. Leaders collaborate with various partners to provide necessary support for pupils and families, and governors play an active role in ensuring safe recruitment practices. Pupils learn about safety in lessons and assemblies, covering topics such as online safety and local risks.
In summary, Notre Dame Catholic Primary School is a good school that provides a supportive and engaging learning environment for its pupils. While the curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, there is a need for further refinement in certain subjects to ensure all pupils build secure knowledge over time. The school is committed to continuous improvement and prioritizes the well-being and development of its students.
