St Scholastica’s Catholic Primary School, located in Clapton, London, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 30-31 October 2019. The school is characterized by a safe and nurturing environment where pupils feel proud to be part of the community. Staff members maintain high expectations for student learning, focusing on helping each child achieve their best. The behavior of pupils is commendable, as they understand the importance of respect and kindness, and they actively promote a zero-tolerance policy towards bullying. When incidents do occur, staff effectively address and resolve the issues.
The school offers a variety of sports activities and lunchtime games, which are well-received by the students. Older pupils particularly enjoy leading playground games for younger students, fostering a sense of responsibility and community. The school’s ethos encourages pupils to reflect on their faith and learn about diverse cultures, with events such as Mass and special assemblies being integral to the school experience. The small class sizes allow pupils to form strong relationships, and they are supportive of new students, helping them integrate and make friends.
Parents and carers appreciate the school’s community events, such as the recent international day, which celebrated cultural diversity through food and shared experiences. The school’s leadership ensures that the curriculum is both challenging and ambitious, with teachers making learning engaging and minimizing disruptions. Phonics instruction is prioritized from the early years, with staff effectively supporting pupils in developing their reading and writing skills. The emphasis on high-quality literature enhances pupils' love for reading, and they enjoy discussing their favorite books and authors.
Mathematics is another area of strength, with teachers planning lessons that build confidence and problem-solving skills. Pupils demonstrate a solid understanding of concepts such as place value, and they apply prior knowledge to new learning. The school also supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, adapting activities to meet individual needs and ensuring all students can participate fully.
While the school has made significant improvements in reading and mathematics, there is a need to further develop the curriculum in subjects such as history, geography, science, Spanish, and music. Leaders are aware of the necessity to embed new plans and provide professional development for staff in these areas. Assessment practices are effective in reading and mathematics, but there is room for improvement in other subjects to ensure consistent evaluation of pupil progress.
The school provides a range of enriching activities that enhance learning and personal development. Pupils express excitement about upcoming trips and new after-school clubs, indicating a vibrant school culture. The staff's commitment to well-being is evident, with strong teamwork and support for new teachers.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with leaders prioritizing pupil welfare and ensuring staff are trained to handle concerns appropriately. The school’s context is considered in safeguarding practices, and pupils are educated on safety issues relevant to their environment.
Overall, St Scholastica’s Catholic Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a strong emphasis on community, respect, and high academic standards. The leadership is focused on continuous improvement, ensuring that all pupils receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for future success.
