St Cecilia’s Catholic Primary School in North Cheam, Sutton, has received an outstanding rating in its recent inspection conducted on November 29 and 30, 2023. The school has maintained this high standard since its last inspection in October 2011, which also rated it as outstanding. The inspection evaluated various aspects of the school, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision, all of which were rated outstanding.
Pupils at St Cecilia’s arrive eager to learn and are excited to engage with both staff and peers. The school fosters a safe and happy environment where students feel proud to be part of the community. They understand and meet the high expectations set by the staff, demonstrating enthusiasm and commitment to their learning. The positive relationships between pupils and staff contribute significantly to the school’s culture, with students citing the support they receive as a primary reason for their enjoyment of school.
Parents and carers express high regard for the school, describing it as a welcoming family. The school actively engages pupils in charity work, exemplified by Year 4 students performing a Nativity play for a local hospice each year. This involvement in the community highlights the school’s commitment to developing compassionate and responsible citizens.
The leadership team has designed an ambitious curriculum that is carefully sequenced to ensure that pupils acquire essential knowledge and skills from an early age. Staff training is prioritized, enabling subject leaders to provide effective support and training to teachers. The school is particularly ambitious for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Staff regularly assess pupils’ prior knowledge and address any misconceptions, ensuring that learning is built upon effectively.
Pupils exhibit exemplary behavior in lessons and throughout the school, demonstrating respect and positive attitudes towards their education. In the early years, children show confidence in following routines and engage in self-directed learning with high levels of concentration. The transition from Reception to Year 1 is well-managed, ensuring that children are fully prepared for the next stage of their education.
The school’s core virtues, such as tolerance, honesty, and responsibility, are integrated into the curriculum and daily life, teaching pupils how to be exemplary citizens. The enrichment opportunities provided by the school, including extracurricular clubs and competitions, further enhance the educational experience. Pupils participate in various activities, including visits to the theatre and local sporting events, ensuring that all students have access to a wide range of experiences.
Leaders are proactive in addressing attendance issues, working closely with families to support improvements. Staff members feel valued and supported, contributing to a strong sense of community within the school. The governing body is actively involved, fulfilling their statutory duties while providing support and challenge to school leaders.
The safeguarding arrangements at St Cecilia’s are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and their welfare is prioritized. The school’s commitment to creating a positive and open culture around safeguarding is evident, with a focus on putting pupils’ interests first. Overall, St Cecilia’s Catholic Primary School exemplifies excellence in education, providing a nurturing and high-quality learning environment for all its pupils.
