St Peter’s CofE School in Paddington, London, has received an outstanding rating in its recent inspection conducted on June 13 and 14, 2023. The school has demonstrated exceptional quality in various areas, including education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. This marks a significant improvement from its previous inspection, where it was rated as good.
Pupils at St Peter’s thrive in a nurturing and supportive environment where they feel safe and happy. The school’s leadership promotes a vision of inclusivity and inspiration, which is evident in the school culture. Pupils are taught the importance of equality and diversity, fostering a sense of belonging for everyone. The close-knit community is characterized by respectful and kind interactions among staff and students. Families express strong support for the school, noting that staff go above and beyond to ensure that pupils receive the necessary assistance to succeed.
The school has high expectations for pupil behavior and learning, with staff and older students serving as positive role models. Pupils take pride in their work and engage enthusiastically in their learning, understanding that making mistakes is part of the educational process. Leaders focus on developing resilience and independence among pupils, providing opportunities for them to take on leadership roles and responsibilities. This approach encourages pupils to embrace challenges and express their individuality.
St Peter’s has implemented a broad and ambitious curriculum that clearly outlines the essential knowledge and skills pupils should acquire across subjects. The curriculum aligns with national standards and, in some areas, exceeds them. Pupils frequently revisit their learning to ensure retention and understanding, and staff facilitate connections between different subjects. The school emphasizes the importance of vocabulary from an early age, providing additional support for those who need it.
The school is committed to inclusivity, ensuring that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive the same curriculum as their peers. Needs are identified promptly, and collaboration among staff, parents, and caregivers ensures appropriate support is provided. Early reading instruction begins in Reception, with pupils enjoying phonics sessions that lead to excellent progress. Teachers are well-trained and deliver the phonics program effectively, helping pupils develop a love for reading through diverse literature and engaging activities.
Pupils learn to take responsibility for their learning and are encouraged to seek help when needed. They demonstrate strong problem-solving skills in mathematics and are well-prepared for the transition to secondary school. The school’s behavior management system is effective, with pupils supporting one another in maintaining high standards of conduct. They learn to act with maturity and independence.
St Peter’s offers numerous opportunities for pupils to explore their interests and talents, including music, gardening, and cultural excursions. The school promotes a physically active lifestyle, with pupils understanding the importance of fitness and health. Leadership roles, such as eco council members and ambassadors, are taken seriously by pupils, who also learn about mental health and well-being.
The school’s culture is strong, with a calm and supportive environment that staff appreciate. Professional development opportunities are valued, and the governing body plays an active role in ensuring the school meets its responsibilities. Safeguarding measures are effective, with a strong culture embedded throughout the school. Staff are well-trained to recognize and address any concerns regarding pupil safety, and pupils are educated on how to keep themselves safe.
Overall, St Peter’s CofE School exemplifies excellence in education, providing a supportive and enriching environment for all its pupils.
