St Joan of Arc RC Primary School, located in Highbury Park, London, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 24 and 25, 2024. The school fosters a strong sense of pride among its pupils, who embody the core values of love, service, respect, and courage. These values are integral to the school's high expectations, creating an environment where pupils feel safe, cared for, and supported by the staff's kindness and guidance. The relationships between staff and pupils are characterized by mutual respect and thoughtfulness, contributing to a positive school culture.
Pupils consistently demonstrate positive behavior, adhering to the school's clear expectations. The school has effective systems in place to recognize and reward pupils who exemplify its values. Leadership at St Joan of Arc is ambitious, with a clear focus on ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, receive the support they need to thrive. Parents and carers hold the school in high regard, expressing confidence in the safety and personalized care their children receive. The school offers a variety of clubs and activities, such as the 'Mini Vinnies,' where pupils engage in community service and fundraising for local causes.
The school excels in teaching reading, with staff well-trained in delivering a consistent phonics program. Pupils who struggle are quickly identified and provided with the necessary support to catch up with their peers. From early years, children are encouraged to develop a love for reading through engaging texts and a rich selection of books available in the school. Teachers are adept at meeting the diverse needs of pupils, ensuring that all can access the curriculum effectively. The curriculum is well-organized, with clear end points and connections between subjects that enhance learning experiences.
However, there are areas for improvement. Occasionally, classroom activities do not align closely with the knowledge outlined in the school's curriculum, which can lead to gaps in pupils' understanding. The school is encouraged to strengthen its oversight processes to ensure that the curriculum is delivered as intended. Attendance is a priority, and leaders have successfully partnered with parents to promote punctuality and regular attendance. Parents are actively involved in the school community, attending workshops to better understand school policies and support their children's education.
Pupils exhibit positive attitudes towards learning from an early age, taking pride in their work and confidently expressing their ideas. The school emphasizes character development, teaching pupils to respect others' beliefs and build friendships. The curriculum includes age-appropriate lessons on relationships and health, including online safety strategies for older pupils. Teachers receive strong support from school leaders, who are mindful of their workload and ensure that new initiatives are carefully considered. Governors collaborate effectively with school leaders to set ambitious goals for pupil achievement, reflected in strong results in external assessments.
The safeguarding arrangements at St Joan of Arc are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school has undergone its second ungraded inspection since being judged as good in July 2014. Overall, St Joan of Arc RC Primary School continues to provide a nurturing and high-quality educational experience for its pupils, with a commitment to continuous improvement and community engagement.
