St John Fisher Catholic Primary School, located in Thamesmead, Erith, Kent, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 13-14, 2019. The school fosters a strong sense of community among its pupils, who feel proud to attend and view themselves as part of a supportive family. The leadership team warmly greets students and their families each morning, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. Parents appreciate the care and attention their children receive from the staff, which helps build strong relationships within the school community. This supportive environment allows pupils to develop confidence and self-assurance as they prepare for secondary education.
The school is committed to ensuring that all pupils achieve well. Teachers design engaging lessons that enhance pupils' knowledge and understanding. The high expectations set by teachers motivate students to strive for excellence. Pupils have access to a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports and educational trips to museums and galleries, which enrich their learning experiences and broaden their horizons. The school promotes a positive and purposeful atmosphere, where pupils behave well and feel safe. Instances of bullying are rare, and pupils trust that staff will address any issues promptly.
Leaders at St John Fisher Catholic Primary School are dedicated to continuous improvement. They have refined the curriculum to ensure that each subject is effectively planned and taught. This includes a focus on what pupils need to learn in subjects like history and science. The updated planning provides clarity for teachers, enabling them to deliver lessons that build on prior knowledge and enhance pupils' understanding as they progress through the school. The school has made significant strides in improving the quality of education, particularly in the early years, where teaching encourages critical thinking and problem-solving.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for further development. Leaders recognize the need to support teachers in planning tasks that promote deeper thinking and critical analysis, particularly in history for pupils in Years 1 to 6. There is a commitment to providing experiences that make learning engaging and relevant, and leaders are working to ensure that cultural opportunities are integrated across all subjects.
The phonics program is well-structured, giving younger pupils a solid foundation in reading. Children begin phonics instruction in Reception and quickly learn to apply their knowledge of letters and sounds to reading and writing. This approach, combined with the introduction of new vocabulary, effectively supports language development. Pupils develop a love for reading and become confident readers, with many engaging in reading at home.
The school is inclusive, ensuring that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities thrive and achieve well. Staff are equipped to support these pupils effectively, allowing them to fully participate in the school's offerings. The well-being of staff is also prioritized, with leaders providing support to help manage workloads and offering high-quality training.
Safeguarding measures are robust, ensuring that pupils feel safe and secure. Staff receive regular training and are well-informed about safeguarding protocols. The school collaborates with families and local agencies to provide additional support when needed.
Overall, St John Fisher Catholic Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a strong emphasis on community, achievement, and well-being. The leadership team is committed to ongoing improvement, ensuring that pupils are well-prepared for their future endeavors.
