St Christina's School

Saint Christina’s School is an independent Roman Catholic day school located in St John’s Wood, London, catering for girls aged 3 to 11 and boys aged 3 to 7. Founded in 1949 by the Handmaids of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the school operates under the diocese of Westminster and is part of a global community established by St Raphaela Mary in the late 19th century. The school is governed by a body that includes the Provincial of the Order, the superior, the chair, and four foundation governors. A new headteacher was appointed in September 2016, marking a new chapter in the school’s leadership.

The school’s mission is to foster independent learning among children while ensuring they feel safe and happy in an environment that rejects discrimination. It emphasizes recognizing each child's unique value and gifts, promoting a sense of belonging and appreciation beyond mere academic achievements. The school draws its pupils from the surrounding area of west London, with a diverse demographic that includes many from minority ethnic backgrounds. Currently, 45 pupils are identified as having special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), with 31 receiving additional specialist support. Additionally, 108 pupils speak English as an additional language (EAL), with eight receiving specialized assistance.

The inspection conducted in May 2017 revealed that the quality of pupils’ academic and other achievements is good. Pupils are articulate and capable of expressing themselves eloquently. Those with SEND or EAL make commendable progress due to the targeted support they receive. The school promotes strong study skills, encouraging pupils to work independently from an early age. However, a minority of pupils, including the more able, sometimes lack motivation in lessons when the teaching does not provide sufficient pace and challenge.

In terms of personal development, the quality is rated as excellent. Pupils exhibit a mature understanding of spirituality, valuing the school’s ethos of sharing, caring, and forgiveness. Their moral understanding is exemplary, and they display friendly and outgoing manners. Collaborative skills are well-developed, with pupils enjoying the support of one another. The school community is characterized by a strong sense of service, with pupils actively engaging in various initiatives.

The school is advised to enhance teaching methods to ensure that all lessons fully motivate pupils, enabling them to maximize their potential. The academic achievements of pupils are supported by a broad and exciting curriculum that includes subjects such as art, design technology, computing, music, and languages. Pupils demonstrate strong creativity and knowledge, particularly in religious education, reflecting the school’s strong Catholic ethos. Their understanding is deepened through challenging questioning techniques employed by teachers, who exhibit expertise and extensive subject knowledge.

Pupils develop secure numeracy skills, with effective teaching in mathematics. While most pupils display a strong grasp of mathematical principles, a few lack motivation in some lessons due to over-directed teaching. In the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), children confidently use numbers, with older pupils applying their mathematical skills effectively in problem-solving scenarios. The school also emphasizes the importance of literacy, with pupils demonstrating high levels of communication skills and creativity in their writing.

The school’s focus on physical education has led to rapid development in pupils’ performance, particularly in competitive sports. The girls’ netball and rounders teams have achieved success in inter-school competitions, and pupils excel in various dance forms. Music is prioritized, with opportunities for pupils to participate in choirs, orchestras, and musical productions, contributing to their overall development.

Pupils exhibit strong study skills, with independence promoted from the EYFS onwards. They engage in stimulating activities that encourage independent investigation and self-editing of their work. The school’s tracking systems effectively identify individual needs, ensuring that all pupils, including those with SEND and EAL, receive appropriate support. The overall achievement of pupils is good, with many gaining places in their first-choice senior schools, often with scholarships.

The quality of pupils’ personal development is further enhanced by the school’s commitment to fostering a harmonious community. Pupils of all ages demonstrate exemplary manners and respect for one another, creating a supportive environment. Initiatives such as the “Caught being Kind” program celebrate individual acts of kindness, reinforcing the school’s values.

Pupils are actively involved in community service, with initiatives aimed at supporting local charities and raising awareness of social issues. They engage in fundraising activities for various causes, including care homes and schools in Equatorial Guinea. The school promotes cultural awareness through events and visits to places of worship, fostering respect for diversity within the school community.

Decision-making skills are well-developed among pupils, who relish opportunities to use their initiative. They understand the impact of their choices on themselves and others, demonstrating maturity in their reflections on future ambitions. The school emphasizes the importance of safety, particularly in the digital realm, ensuring that pupils are aware of healthy eating habits and the significance of a balanced lifestyle.

Overall, Saint Christina’s School successfully instills a sense of personal responsibility and self-discipline in its pupils, preparing them for future challenges. The school’s commitment to recognizing each child’s unique value and gifts is evident in its nurturing environment, which promotes both academic and personal growth. By the time pupils leave the school, they exhibit a high standard of personal development, equipped with the skills and confidence necessary for their future endeavors.