St Peter’s Catholic Primary School in Birmingham has been recognized for its outstanding performance across various aspects of education. The school has undergone significant improvements since its last inspection, where it was rated as requiring improvement. Under the strong leadership of the headteacher, the school has fostered a culture of excellence, encouraging both staff and pupils to aspire to their highest potential. The leadership team, including senior and middle leaders, is dedicated to researching and implementing effective teaching practices, which has led to exemplary teaching quality throughout the school.
The teaching staff demonstrate excellent subject knowledge and employ effective strategies to engage and inspire pupils. As a result, there has been a notable increase in pupil attainment and progress, with results significantly above national averages by the end of Year 6. Almost all pupils make substantial and sustained progress, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds and those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school has a strong emphasis on reading, with high outcomes in phonics screening checks, enabling pupils to read unfamiliar words confidently and understand their reading material well.
Pupils exhibit a remarkable enthusiasm for learning, displaying confidence and articulateness in their interactions. They work collaboratively and independently, benefiting from a rich and exciting curriculum that includes numerous opportunities for educational visits and trips. The early years provision is particularly strong, with a focus on developing foundational skills in reading, writing, and mathematics through well-planned activities. The school’s leadership has also identified areas for further improvement, particularly in supporting low prior-attaining disadvantaged boys in their letter and number formation.
The governance of the school is robust, with governors playing an active role in supporting and challenging the leadership team. They possess a clear understanding of the school’s strengths and areas for development, ensuring that rapid improvements are sustained. The school effectively utilizes pupil premium funding to support disadvantaged pupils, leading to their progress and attainment being well above national averages.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with thorough checks and regular training for staff and governors. Parents express confidence in the school’s ability to keep their children safe, and pupils feel secure and valued within the school environment. The school promotes a strong sense of community, with pupils demonstrating kindness and respect towards one another, contributing to a positive atmosphere.
The quality of teaching, learning, and assessment is outstanding, with careful monitoring ensuring that lessons are tailored to meet the diverse needs of pupils. Teachers utilize effective assessment strategies to facilitate smooth and productive lessons. The curriculum is designed to provide valuable learning experiences, integrating various subjects and promoting pupils’ spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development.
Overall, St Peter’s Catholic Primary School stands out as an exemplary institution, demonstrating a commitment to high standards in education and the personal development of its pupils. The school’s achievements reflect the dedication of its leadership, staff, and governors, as well as the positive relationships fostered within the school community. As a result, pupils are well-prepared for their future educational journeys, leaving the school with a strong foundation for success.
