St Mary’s Catholic Primary School in Isleworth has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 28 and 29, 2022. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils express enjoyment in attending and feel a sense of belonging within the St Mary’s community. They report feeling happy and safe, engaging enthusiastically in a variety of activities both inside and outside the classroom. The interactions among pupils and between pupils and staff are characterized by warmth and confidence, contributing to a supportive atmosphere.
The adults in the school maintain high expectations for the pupils, guiding them in understanding right from wrong and encouraging positive behavior. The respectful and kind demeanor of the pupils is evident, and instances of bullying are rare. When such incidents do occur, staff are quick to address them effectively. The ambition of the staff is reflected in the challenges they present to pupils, who respond positively to the expectations set before them. The use of strategies like the ‘4Bs’ helps pupils navigate difficulties in their learning.
Leadership at the school is proactive in providing opportunities for pupils to develop leadership skills. For instance, Year 5 pupils take on the responsibility of organizing the sports day for younger students, while school council representatives engage with their peers and catering staff to influence the lunch menu. The curriculum is well-structured and ambitious, designed to prepare pupils for future educational stages. Subject experts have collaborated with leaders to ensure that the curriculum is comprehensive and meets the needs of the pupils.
Teachers employ effective methods to introduce learning, breaking down concepts into manageable parts to enhance retention and understanding. This approach is particularly beneficial for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they also learn effectively. However, there are occasional lapses in identifying and addressing misconceptions among pupils, which can hinder their understanding.
Pupils are actively engaged in lessons and collaborate well with one another, with minimal disruptions to learning. Assessments are utilized to identify gaps in knowledge, particularly in mathematics, where the school has prioritized addressing issues stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. The school has successfully implemented strategies to help pupils regain their fluency in arithmetic and calculation skills.
Reading is a significant focus, with leaders prioritizing early reading instruction. Staff have received training to ensure consistency in the phonics program across all year groups. Pupils practice their reading regularly, although some younger pupils occasionally receive books that are too challenging, which can impede their reading fluency. Nevertheless, the school has cultivated a genuine love for reading among pupils, who frequently visit the library and share book recommendations.
Beyond academics, the school offers a range of extracurricular activities that promote pupils’ social development. Initiatives like the daily mile run and various after-school clubs are well-attended and contribute to the overall development of the pupils. Staff feel supported by approachable leaders who prioritize manageable workloads, leading to a positive working environment.
The school’s safeguarding measures are effective, with staff well-informed about their responsibilities and the signs of potential risks to pupils. The school has rigorous checks in place for staff suitability, ensuring a safe environment for all. Overall, St Mary’s Catholic Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and nurturing environment for its pupils, with areas identified for improvement to further enhance the learning experience.
