St Barnabas and St Philip’s CofE Primary School, located at 58 Earls Court Road, Kensington, London W8 6EJ, underwent an inspection on 30 April and 1 May 2024. The school has shown significant improvements since its previous inspection, transitioning from a Requires Improvement rating to a Good rating. The recent inspection highlighted the school’s dedication to enhancing the quality of education, fostering positive behavior, and promoting personal development among its pupils.
Pupils at St Barnabas and St Philip’s express pride in their school and appreciate the positive changes implemented by the leadership. They feel valued and heard, which contributes to a sense of maturity and commitment to school life. The school encourages pupils to take on various responsibilities, such as roles in the school parliament, eco-warriors, and play monitors, providing them with practical understanding of democracy and preparing them for life in modern Britain. Behavior within the school is exemplary, with pupils demonstrating a clear understanding of the importance of positive behavior.
The curriculum at St Barnabas and St Philip’s is broad and ambitious, designed to break down learning into manageable steps. This approach benefits pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, enabling them to deepen their knowledge and understanding. The school has made significant strides in improving the curriculum, particularly in English and mathematics, where pupils achieve high standards. A strong reading culture is fostered, starting from Reception, with well-trained staff delivering the phonics program effectively.
The school emphasizes key knowledge and vocabulary across all subjects, allowing pupils to revisit and practice important concepts, enhancing their retention and understanding over time. While the school has made commendable progress, some aspects of the curriculum are still in the early stages of implementation, and the school is encouraged to continue embedding its ambitious curriculum to ensure all pupils can make connections in their learning.
The provision for pupils’ personal development at St Barnabas and St Philip’s is exceptional, with a wide range of enrichment activities available. The curriculum prepares pupils for their future lives, emphasizing respect for diversity and equality of opportunity. The leadership team, including the governing body, has worked diligently to improve the school, leading to rapid improvements in curriculum delivery and pupil outcomes. Safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, prioritizing the safety and well-being of pupils.
In conclusion, St Barnabas and St Philip’s CofE Primary School has made significant progress, achieving a Good rating overall. The school’s commitment to providing a high-quality education, fostering positive behavior, and promoting personal development is evident. Continued efforts to fully embed the curriculum will further enhance the learning experience for all pupils.
