St Mary Magdalen's Catholic Primary School in London has recently undergone an inspection, which took place on June 5 and 6, 2024. The overall effectiveness of the school has been rated as good, with specific areas such as behaviour and attitudes, and personal development receiving outstanding ratings. The quality of education and early years provision were also rated as good, while leadership and management were deemed good as well. The school had previously been rated outstanding in its last inspection in April 2013 and was exempt from routine inspections until November 2020 due to this high rating.
The school is characterized by warm and nurturing relationships among staff, pupils, and parents. Pupils express enjoyment in attending school and demonstrate a strong commitment to their learning. The curriculum is broad and ambitious, with high expectations set for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Pupils achieve well in national assessments, reflecting the effectiveness of the school's educational approach.
Behaviour in the school is exemplary, with pupils adhering to high expectations consistently. This positive behaviour is established from early years, where children quickly adapt to routines and show curiosity in their learning. The school offers a variety of opportunities for pupils to explore their interests and talents through a rich array of activities, including sports, arts, and languages, as well as residential trips and performances.
The curriculum is well-structured and designed to ensure that pupils revisit and apply their learning effectively. Teachers are knowledgeable and skilled in their subjects, providing clear explanations and promptly addressing any misconceptions. However, there are a few subjects where the curriculum is still in the early stages of implementation, which means that some pupils may not consistently secure the necessary knowledge. The school is aware of this and is working to strengthen the implementation and assessment practices in these areas.
Early reading is prioritized, with a strong phonics program in place. Staff have received comprehensive training, and pupils are given ample opportunities to practice their reading with books that match their learning. This approach has led to increased fluency and confidence in reading among pupils. The school also effectively identifies and supports pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they have access to the same curriculum as their peers.
The personal development program is exceptional, fostering confidence and resilience in pupils. They demonstrate respect for one another and an understanding of kindness and equality. Pupils actively contribute to the school community, supporting the well-being of their peers through various initiatives. Attendance is closely monitored, and the school works with external agencies to ensure the welfare of all pupils.
Governance at the school is strong, with governors being well-informed and effectively balancing support and accountability. Parents express high levels of satisfaction with the education their children receive. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
In summary, St Mary Magdalen's Catholic Primary School provides a nurturing and ambitious educational environment where pupils thrive academically and personally. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in the implementation of certain subjects, the school is committed to enhancing its practices to ensure all pupils achieve their full potential.
