St Thomas of Canterbury Catholic Primary School in Fulham, London, received a positive inspection report following its evaluation on June 20 and 21, 2023. The school was rated as good across all areas, including overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. This reflects the school's commitment to providing a nurturing and supportive environment for its pupils.
Pupils at St Thomas of Canterbury take pride in their school and thrive within its caring ethos. They understand the significance of kindness and respect, which fosters a welcoming atmosphere. The school encourages a love for learning, with pupils particularly enjoying educational visits that enhance their classroom experiences. Notable trips to places like the Saatchi Gallery and Westminster Cathedral have enriched their learning.
Teachers maintain high expectations for all students, promoting good behaviour throughout the school. Pupils are described as polite and hardworking, eager to earn rewards such as house points and gold card awards. The early years staff effectively support children's development, ensuring a strong foundation for their future education.
The school offers numerous opportunities for pupils to take on responsibilities, such as participating in the school council and various clubs. This involvement helps students learn about citizenship and contribute positively to their school community. Leaders have developed a well-structured curriculum that aligns with national standards, particularly in early years, where the curriculum is carefully sequenced to prepare children for Year 1.
While the curriculum is strong in most subjects, there are a few areas where leaders have not fully defined the essential content for pupils to learn. This gap can limit students' deeper understanding in those subjects. Nevertheless, teachers are dedicated to delivering lessons that engage pupils and help them acquire subject-specific knowledge and skills, especially in mathematics.
The school has implemented an effective phonics programme to support early reading. Staff are trained to ensure consistency in teaching reading across the school, providing pupils with ample opportunities to read diverse texts. However, some pupils who struggle with reading do not always have access to books that match their phonics knowledge, which can hinder their reading fluency.
St Thomas of Canterbury effectively identifies and supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. These students feel happy and included in the school community, receiving both academic and social support from staff. The school environment is described as happy and inclusive, with strong relationships between teachers and pupils. Learning is rarely disrupted, and staff promptly address any behaviour that does not meet the school's high standards.
The governing body demonstrates a robust understanding of the school's operations, providing support while holding leaders accountable. Staff express high levels of satisfaction with their work environment, feeling well-supported and valued by school leaders, who prioritize their wellbeing and professional development.
The school's safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to recognize signs of potential harm. The curriculum also educates pupils on safety, ensuring they understand how to protect themselves in various situations. Overall, St Thomas of Canterbury Catholic Primary School is a thriving educational community that prioritizes the development and wellbeing of its pupils while maintaining high academic standards.
