Blessed Sacrament RC Primary School, located in Kings Cross, London, has been rated as a good school following its inspection in October 2018. The leadership and management of the school are effective, with senior leaders implementing systems that have successfully raised standards, particularly in mathematics. Pupils across all year groups are making good progress, and leaders have utilized monitoring effectively to provide targeted support for those who may be falling behind. The governing body is proud of the school, although they have not always had the necessary information to fully understand the challenges faced by the school.
Teaching at Blessed Sacrament is focused not only on improving skills in writing and mathematics but also on enhancing the wider curriculum, including physical education and music. However, there is a need for further improvement in the teaching of reading in Key Stage 2. Attendance has improved and is now broadly average, reflecting the emphasis placed on it by leaders and staff. Teachers know their pupils well, and the overall quality of teaching is good, with lessons designed to engage and excite students.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are well supported, with tailored work that meets their individual needs. The school promotes respect, tolerance, and kindness among pupils, who are well-behaved and motivated to work hard. Leaders ensure that pupils are well cared for and that their personal development is prioritized. In the early years, children make good progress from their starting points, with effective provision in the Reception and Nursery classes preparing them well for Year 1.
To further improve, the school needs to enhance the quality of improvement planning to enable governors to hold leaders accountable more effectively. Additionally, the effectiveness of reading instruction in Key Stage 2 must be improved by raising teachers' expectations and ensuring that all pupils, particularly those who are lower-attaining or have special educational needs, receive appropriate support. Increasing opportunities for pupils to read challenging texts across various subjects is also essential.
The leadership team is committed to creating memorable learning experiences and has established a clear set of school values that reflect the Catholic ethos. Middle leaders are ambitious and enthusiastic, linking their actions to improved outcomes for pupils. The new assessment system is beginning to provide useful information for tracking pupil progress, and the school effectively uses pupil premium funding to support disadvantaged pupils.
The school offers a broad and diverse curriculum, focusing on key literacy and numeracy skills while also providing opportunities for pupils to engage in physical education and music. The local authority has provided valuable support, helping the school to address challenges, particularly in reading instruction. Governors are active in their roles, visiting the school frequently and understanding its needs, although they have not always focused on the main challenges due to previous weaknesses in development planning.
The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with all staff trained in child protection procedures. A strong culture of safety exists within the school, and pupils feel confident that it is a safe environment. The school has made significant strides in ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, are well supported and making progress. Overall, Blessed Sacrament RC Primary School is a good school that is committed to continuous improvement and the well-being of its pupils.
