Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Primary School, located in Notting Hill, London, has recently undergone an inspection that has resulted in an outstanding rating across all key areas, including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. This marks a significant improvement from its previous inspection grade of good. The school is characterized by a nurturing and supportive environment where staff are dedicated to fostering a love for learning among pupils. The strong sense of community is deeply rooted in the school's Christian ethos, which is reflected in the high regard parents and carers have for the care provided by the staff.
Pupils at Saint Francis thrive both socially and academically, making excellent progress and achieving high standards, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school offers a diverse range of opportunities for pupils to extend their learning and develop their talents. The ambitious music programme allows pupils to perform at prestigious venues, such as the Royal Albert Hall, and participate in significant events like the annual 'four choirs' concert. Additionally, pupils engage with the local history through visits to key sites, enhancing their understanding of their community. The Year 6 residential trip and visits from authors and artists further enrich the pupils' educational experience.
The curriculum at Saint Francis is broad, well-sequenced, and ambitious, ensuring that all subjects are effectively integrated. It clearly outlines the essential knowledge pupils need to acquire, with connections across topics that promote a comprehensive understanding over time. For instance, history lessons build on local studies, allowing pupils to draw on previous knowledge as they progress. In the early years, children develop a strong foundation in mathematics, enabling them to apply their skills across the curriculum confidently.
Leadership at the school is characterized by a continuous drive for improvement, with staff valuing collaboration with colleagues from other local schools. This partnership has strengthened the curriculum and reduced workload, fostering a supportive community where staff feel proud to work. The school prioritizes the needs of pupils with special educational needs, ensuring that they receive effective support promptly, which contributes to their excellent progress.
Positive relationships between staff and pupils are evident, with high expectations for behaviour consistently upheld. Routines are established quickly, allowing pupils to settle into their learning activities and develop confidence and independence as they progress through the school. The school is committed to ensuring that every child becomes a confident and fluent reader, with a well-structured phonics programme in place to support early literacy development.
Mental health is a key focus, with access to therapeutic services for pupils and families. The personal, social, health, and economic education curriculum equips pupils to make informed choices regarding their well-being. The school's Catholic principles promote moral awareness and help pupils develop into conscientious individuals. The comprehensive enrichment programme exposes pupils to a variety of experiences that prepare them for future challenges.
Attendance at the school is strong, with persistent absence rates declining due to proactive measures taken by the school to address barriers to attendance. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Primary School exemplifies excellence in education, providing a supportive and enriching environment that fosters the holistic development of its pupils.
