St Mary’s Catholic Primary School in Enfield has received a positive inspection report, reflecting its overall effectiveness as good. The school demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education, with pupils eager to attend each day. The calm learning environment is fostered by high expectations set from the nursery level, leading to good behavior and a sense of pride in their work among students. Relationships within the school are warm and caring, ensuring that pupils feel safe and supported. Older students take on responsibilities, such as assisting younger pupils during lunch, which promotes a culture of kindness and support.
The curriculum at St Mary’s is ambitious and well-structured, with a clear focus on essential knowledge and skills from early years through to Year 6. This logical progression allows pupils to build on their learning effectively, as evidenced by Year 3 students confidently explaining scientific investigations. Teachers possess secure subject knowledge and provide clear explanations, which helps pupils grasp new concepts. Vocabulary development is prioritized, with older students using complex terms accurately. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the early years, where some staff may not effectively model and extend children's language, potentially limiting vocabulary exposure.
Reading is a key focus at St Mary’s, with pupils given ample opportunities to engage with literature. Daily read-aloud sessions and library visits foster a love for reading, and the school emphasizes early reading instruction to ensure fluency. Staff are well-trained in effective reading strategies, and regular assessments help identify pupils needing additional support. The school is actively working to improve reading outcomes for Year 1 and Year 6 students, as recent results were below national standards.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive effective support, allowing them to access the curriculum alongside their peers. Early identification of needs and targeted training for staff ensure that these pupils can achieve well. The school maintains high expectations for behavior, with established routines that minimize disruptions during lessons. Attendance is generally good, but the school is focused on further improvements.
The personal, social, health, and economic education curriculum is well-structured, teaching pupils about consent and risks in an age-appropriate manner. The school promotes respect and democratic values through initiatives like the school council. Leaders at St Mary’s are ambitious for their pupils and provide strong support for staff, fostering a positive working environment.
Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to recognize signs that a pupil may need help. However, there are some concerns regarding the detail in safeguarding records and the speed of communication with external agencies. The school is encouraged to enhance the accuracy of these records and ensure timely reporting of concerns.
Overall, St Mary’s Catholic Primary School is a nurturing environment where pupils thrive academically and socially. The school’s commitment to high standards, effective teaching, and a supportive atmosphere contributes to its good standing in the community. Continuous efforts to improve language modeling, safeguarding practices, and reading outcomes will further enhance the educational experience for all students.
