St Paul with St Luke Church of England Primary School, located in Bow, London, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 19-20, 2019. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils take pride in their learning and enjoy engaging with their peers. They are eager to share their experiences and responsibilities, particularly those in leadership roles, such as the elected head team members and classroom ambassadors. The school emphasizes the importance of experiential learning, allowing students to explore the rich cultural offerings of London through workshops and museum visits, which enhance their classroom learning.
Physical activity is encouraged through various play areas, where students engage in climbing and ball games, while also appreciating nature in designated quiet areas. The school promotes environmental awareness through initiatives led by the eco family group, which encourages pupils to contribute ideas for improving their surroundings. The Christian ethos is deeply embedded in the school culture, with pupils being recognized for their values through awards. The school effectively manages behavior, addressing any instances of bullying promptly, and ensuring that pupils feel comfortable discussing their concerns with staff.
Reading is prioritized, with pupils developing a strong appreciation for literature and their favorite authors. Initiatives like reading picnics encourage regular reading at home. However, some children in the early years and key stage one face challenges with initial sounds, although they receive additional support to help them catch up. The school is working to enhance reading strategies in key stage two to ensure all pupils develop strong vocabulary and comprehension skills.
Storytime is a cherished tradition, starting in nursery and continuing through to Year 6, where pupils engage with high-quality texts. Writing skills are nurtured through topics that spark pupils' imaginations, and they are encouraged to organize their ideas collaboratively before writing. The science curriculum is engaging, with pupils excited about hands-on experiments and discoveries. In computing, pupils enjoy creating presentations and using coding programs, although there is a recognition that further development of the computing curriculum is needed.
The school is inclusive, providing strong support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Staff are well-trained to offer additional assistance, ensuring that the curriculum is ambitious yet relevant. The school promotes regular attendance and supports families facing challenges in this area. Leaders and governors are effective in their roles, maintaining a strong understanding of the school’s needs and fostering a supportive community among staff.
The safeguarding arrangements are robust, with staff well-trained to manage concerns and ensure pupil safety. Pupils are educated on online safety and understand the importance of staying safe. The school has taken positive steps to improve its reading curriculum, particularly in key stage two, and is developing plans for subjects like computing and geography to enhance the overall educational experience. The school community is characterized by a sense of belonging and mutual respect, with parents expressing confidence in the care and support provided for their children. Overall, St Paul with St Luke Church of England Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a commitment to ongoing improvement in various areas.