Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Primary School in London has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 19 and 20 October 2021. The school is characterized by a welcoming and friendly atmosphere where pupils quickly form friendships and support one another. The leadership prioritizes the well-being of students, ensuring that their personal and emotional needs are met alongside their academic achievements. This balance is crucial to the school's success, as it fosters a positive learning environment.
The curriculum is implemented effectively in classrooms, with teachers setting high expectations while also catering for individual pupil needs. Additional support is provided to those who struggle, which helps cultivate a respect for learning and enjoyment of school among students. Pupils feel safe within the school environment, thanks to the vigilance of teachers and staff who actively promote safety through workshops on online safety and anti-bullying. Instances of bullying are rare, and when they do occur, they are addressed promptly and effectively.
The school leadership is actively working on priorities to enhance the educational experience for pupils. Prior to the pandemic, leaders began revising the curriculum to align with their educational goals, focusing on developing good citizens and encouraging a love for reading. Although the pandemic caused some delays, progress has been made in various areas, particularly in mathematics, where a commercial scheme has been adapted to meet the needs of pupils. The positive attitudes and behavior of students contribute to a conducive learning environment, with minimal disruptions during lessons.
Teachers are adept at identifying misconceptions and revisiting material to ensure understanding. This approach is complemented by strategies that help pupils retain important information, enabling them to make connections across subjects. Reading is emphasized from the early years, with structured phonics teaching that ensures nearly all pupils become confident readers by the end of Year 1. The school continues to prioritize reading as pupils advance, providing incentives to encourage reading at home.
However, the science curriculum requires further development due to delays caused by the pandemic. Current plans outline activities but lack specificity regarding the knowledge to be acquired, which sometimes results in insufficient learning. Leaders are committed to improving the science curriculum to ensure that essential scientific knowledge is effectively taught.
The school also provides robust support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that their learning is closely monitored and that they receive targeted assistance. The range of extracurricular activities, including sports, philosophy, and gardening clubs, along with community engagement through trips and events, enriches pupils' learning experiences.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with strong procedures for ensuring the well-being and safety of pupils. Staff are well-trained to recognize signs of abuse or neglect, and the school maintains positive relationships with external agencies to provide timely support for families in need.
In summary, Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Primary School demonstrates a commitment to fostering a supportive and effective learning environment. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in the science curriculum, the overall educational experience is positive, with strong leadership and a focus on both academic and personal development for all pupils.
