St Teresa’s Catholic Primary School in Morden, Surrey, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on July 6 and 7, 2022. The school fosters an environment where pupils are encouraged to embody values such as teamwork and ambition. Students engage enthusiastically in lessons and demonstrate a strong work ethic. They feel happy and safe, collaborating effectively with peers and trusting the adults in their environment. The school promotes kindness through small acts of courtesy, which are referred to as St Teresa’s little ways. Instances of bullying are rare, and when they do occur, staff address them promptly.
The expectations set by adults in the school are high, motivating pupils to strive for their best. This encouragement leads to commendable achievements across various subjects. The leadership team actively creates opportunities for students to explore and develop their interests, such as publishing a termly magazine and presenting personal projects in science and engineering. The school has also received recognition for its respectful behavior and fair play in inter-school competitions.
A significant focus of the school is the teaching of early reading. Leaders ensure that all staff are well-trained in phonics, allowing for consistent delivery of the phonics program. This structured approach helps pupils master sounds effectively, with careful selection of tasks and resources to support their learning. Assessments are utilized effectively to identify pupils who may be falling behind, ensuring timely support to help them catch up. As a result, students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, develop into fluent readers and express a genuine love for reading.
The curriculum is well-structured, allowing pupils to build on prior knowledge and acquire new information over time. In the early years, children engage in practical learning experiences, such as growing potatoes and studying farm animals, which prepares them for more advanced topics in later years. Teachers introduce new subject matter clearly, considering what pupils already know to facilitate understanding. However, there are occasions when large amounts of new information are presented at once, which can hinder retention of essential concepts.
Pupils are actively engaged in lessons, contributing to discussions and showing genuine interest in their learning. Disruptions due to off-task behavior are infrequent. The school effectively meets the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities by gathering information early and collaborating with parents and specialists. Adaptations in the classroom ensure that all pupils can access the same knowledge.
Beyond academics, the school provides numerous opportunities for all-round development. Pupils learn about social and environmental issues and participate in fundraising for various charities. Staff express pride in being part of the school, appreciating the approachable leadership and the support provided for additional responsibilities.
The safeguarding arrangements at St Teresa’s are effective, with staff trained to maintain a vigilant attitude towards pupil safety. Comprehensive training ensures that staff are clear on safeguarding procedures, and rigorous checks are conducted on staff suitability. Pupils receive education on safety in various contexts, including online safety.
To further improve, the school should focus on helping teachers introduce new ideas in a manageable way, ensuring that pupils can grasp and retain essential information over time. This approach will enhance the overall learning experience and support the continued success of the school.
