English Martyrs Roman Catholic Primary School, located in Walworth, London, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection in March 2020. The pupils at this school exhibit a strong sense of happiness, kindness, and care towards one another, creating a positive and respectful environment. They feel safe and well-supported, demonstrating a desire to excel in their learning. The school fosters a nurturing atmosphere where core values such as faith and respect are upheld by both staff and students. Parents and carers appreciate the strong sense of community within the school, with one pupil expressing the sentiment that they are all part of one family.
The school offers a diverse curriculum that includes specialist teaching in subjects like art, music, and physical education. Pupils have access to a variety of after-school clubs and regularly visit cultural institutions such as museums and galleries, which enrich their general knowledge of history and geography. The leadership team, including governors, is dedicated to maintaining an inclusive environment where disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs thrive. Staff members hold high expectations for all students, ensuring that they are well-prepared for their future educational journeys.
Pupils actively participate in school life through roles such as school council members and junior chaplains, contributing to the well-being of their peers. They enjoy their playtimes and report that incidents of bullying are rare. The school has established a clear structure for what pupils should learn at each year level, and teachers possess strong subject knowledge, helping students build on their previous learning. Regular practice and rehearsal of skills enable pupils to retain information effectively, and their behavior in lessons is commendable.
Reading is prioritized throughout the school, with daily reading sessions and a well-stocked library. In the early years, children are introduced to vocabulary through engaging books, which aids in developing their early reading skills. However, there is a noted need for more opportunities for pupils in the early years and key stage one to apply their phonics knowledge in writing. While pupils in key stage two demonstrate confidence and fluency in their reading and writing, there is room for improvement in the accuracy of grammar and vocabulary usage in longer written pieces in key stage one.
The curriculum extends beyond academics, promoting a strong understanding of social justice and British values. Pupils are encouraged to demonstrate fairness, responsibility, and compassion, preparing them for life in modern Britain. Staff members report that school leaders are supportive and considerate of their well-being, contributing to a positive working environment. Parents overwhelmingly support the school and commend the leadership of the headteacher.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with staff receiving regular training and being vigilant about potential risks. Strong support is provided for pupils' mental health and well-being, with initiatives such as worry boxes in classrooms. Pupils are educated on online safety and the importance of community safety.
To enhance the quality of education further, the school must ensure that pupils have well-planned opportunities to apply their phonics knowledge in writing. Additionally, there is a need for consistent expectations regarding the quality of work in longer writing tasks, particularly in key stage one. Overall, English Martyrs Roman Catholic Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, fostering both academic and personal growth.
