Margaret Roper Catholic Primary School in Purley, Surrey, was inspected on July 11 and 12, 2023, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The quality of education, leadership and management, and personal development were also rated as good, while behaviour and attitudes, as well as early years provision, were rated outstanding. The school has maintained its good rating since the previous inspection in January 2018.
Pupils at Margaret Roper are very happy and feel a strong sense of belonging within the school community. The school promotes values that foster respect among students, and they are enthusiastic about their learning. Leaders encourage curiosity and a love for learning, which is evident in the positive atmosphere of the school. Staff maintain high expectations for pupil behaviour, resulting in excellent conduct during lessons. The school environment is calm and conducive to learning, allowing pupils to focus effectively. Students support one another in adhering to school rules and demonstrate a solid understanding of diverse faiths and cultures. Trust between pupils and staff is strong, with students confident that they will receive support for any concerns.
The school offers numerous opportunities for character development, including leadership roles such as friendship ambassadors who assist peers during playtime. Pupils are encouraged to engage with the wider community, and extracurricular activities, including visits and clubs, enhance the curriculum. Students take pride in representing their school at various events, including music and sports competitions.
Leaders have established an ambitious curriculum that enables pupils to achieve well. The early years program provides a robust foundation, ensuring children are well-prepared for Year 1. Teachers effectively assess children's knowledge and skills, planning activities that promote deeper learning. For example, Reception pupils independently created pirate hats using their understanding of joining materials. In most subjects, leaders have clearly identified essential knowledge and skills for pupils to acquire, and teachers facilitate opportunities for recalling prior learning, which helps build knowledge over time. However, some subjects require further development in curriculum thinking to enhance pupils' understanding.
Teachers employ effective questioning techniques to encourage deeper thinking among pupils. For instance, Year 3 students collected and presented data from geography fieldwork. While teachers typically check for understanding, there are instances where misconceptions are not addressed promptly, which can hinder some pupils' readiness for future content. In early years, children develop a strong foundation in mathematics, as demonstrated by their ability to accurately count the total number of legs for sets of animals.
The school prioritizes reading, with all staff trained to deliver consistent phonics instruction. Pupils develop solid phonics knowledge and effectively blend sounds. Teachers monitor progress and provide appropriate support, particularly for pupils new to English. Throughout the school, there is a strong emphasis on fostering a passion for reading, starting in early years with engaging texts and library visits.
Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities have access to the same curriculum as their peers, with leaders ensuring their needs are accurately identified. This targeted support allows these pupils to succeed alongside their classmates. The school promotes exceptional attitudes towards learning and behaviour, with routines established from the outset. Attendance is strong, as pupils enjoy being at school and participating in various activities.
Leaders and governors are reflective and committed to continuous improvement, accurately identifying strengths and areas for development. Staff feel supported and take pride in their work at the school. Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with robust systems in place to support vulnerable pupils. Overall, Margaret Roper Catholic Primary School provides a nurturing and effective educational environment for its pupils.
