St Mary’s CofE Primary School in Putney, London, was inspected on 8 and 9 December 2021, receiving an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has a strong reputation, having been previously rated outstanding 14 years ago. The long gap between inspections was due to the school being exempt from routine inspections until November 2020. The current inspection reflects the school’s performance under the latest framework and considers any changes since the last evaluation.
Pupils at St Mary’s arrive at school eager to learn, displaying positive attitudes and respect towards staff and peers. They feel safe and secure, with rare incidents of bullying being taken seriously by the staff. The school promotes a culture of respect and mutual support, with initiatives like the pupil anti-bullying ambassadors helping to address issues proactively. The school encourages a variety of activities during playtimes, fostering social interactions among students.
The curriculum at St Mary’s is ambitious and well-structured, allowing pupils to build on their prior knowledge effectively. Leaders have carefully sequenced subjects to ensure a logical progression of learning. This approach is particularly evident in mathematics, where teachers assess pupils’ understanding before introducing new concepts. In subjects like art and music, pupils are encouraged to develop their skills over time, demonstrating a clear understanding of their learning journey.
While most subjects are well-planned, some areas have identified gaps in pupils’ knowledge. Leaders are actively working to address these gaps by refining curriculum plans and providing support to teachers. The school is committed to ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, have access to the full curriculum and receive the necessary support to succeed.
Reading is a priority at St Mary’s, with a strong emphasis on phonics from early years onwards. Daily phonics sessions help pupils become fluent readers, and those who struggle receive additional support to catch up with their peers. The school fosters a love of reading, with pupils eager to discuss their favorite books and authors.
Pupils demonstrate good behavior in lessons, showing engagement and motivation. They have opportunities to participate in school governance through the school council, where they learn about democracy and representation. The school encourages pupils to be active citizens, engaging in community initiatives and fundraising for charities.
Staff at St Mary’s feel supported by school leaders, who prioritize their well-being and manage workloads effectively. The school maintains strong communication with parents and carers, fostering a collaborative environment that enhances the educational experience for pupils.
The safeguarding arrangements at St Mary’s are robust, with a strong ethos of safety and well-being. Staff receive regular training, and procedures are in place to ensure the safety of all pupils. The school promotes online safety and encourages pupils to speak up if they have concerns.
In summary, St Mary’s CofE Primary School provides a nurturing and effective educational environment. While the school has areas for improvement, particularly in embedding curriculum changes, it demonstrates a commitment to high standards of teaching and learning, ensuring that all pupils can thrive academically and personally.
