The Priory School

The inspection report for Priory School, conducted from November 14 to 16, 2023, provides a comprehensive overview of the school's performance across various domains, including leadership and management, quality of education, pupils' well-being, and safeguarding practices. The report highlights the effectiveness of school leaders and governors in fulfilling their responsibilities, promoting pupil well-being, and ensuring compliance with educational standards. The school has successfully fostered a culture that reflects its Catholic heritage and aligns with its educational aims.

Leaders have engaged in a self-evaluation process to identify areas for improvement, although some planning in the senior school lacks clarity regarding the steps necessary to achieve desired outcomes. In contrast, leaders in the prep school have established a more effective oversight and planning framework. The curriculum is comprehensive, covering all required areas of learning, and pupils generally make good progress. Support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and those with education and health care (EHC) plans is appropriate, enabling them to progress alongside their peers. Additionally, there is suitable support for pupils who speak English as an additional language (EAL), which has recently been enhanced to ensure consistent progress.

Leaders have implemented new systems to assess pupils' progress and attainment, which are effectively utilized in the prep school. However, in the senior school, this data is not always leveraged to inform teaching practices, leading to less consistent pupil progress. Overall, pupils feel supported in their learning, with prep school pupils demonstrating high levels of engagement and eagerness. In the senior school, engagement levels vary, with some pupils less involved due to tasks not being well-matched to their abilities.

Children in the Reception class are making good progress in their learning and development, preparing them well for the next stage of their education. The school has established effective pastoral structures centered on year group tutoring, ensuring that pupils know they can approach adults for support. Respectful treatment among pupils is evident, and there is a clear understanding that discrimination and bullying are unacceptable.

The school takes appropriate actions to address identified risks, ensuring a secure environment with measures in place to minimize health and safety risks. The premises are well-maintained, and regular checks are conducted to mitigate fire risks. The school has a personal, social, health, and economic education (PSHE) program that prepares pupils for adult life in modern Britain, including age-appropriate relationships and sex education (RSE). While most pupils demonstrate respect towards one another, a few do not fully grasp the importance of healthy relationships, though such incidents are rare and addressed promptly by leaders.

The careers program is suitable, preparing pupils for their next educational steps and future careers. Leaders recognize the need to broaden the scope of this program to inform pupils about a wider range of options. Pupils exhibit a strong sense of responsibility towards the environment and the community, engaging in charitable fundraising and service activities.

Safeguarding procedures are effective and align with the latest guidance. Staff receive thorough training in safeguarding responsibilities, ensuring a well-informed approach to pupil safety. The report concludes that the school meets all relevant standards across various domains, including leadership and management, quality of education, pupils' well-being, and safeguarding.

The report outlines recommended next steps for school leaders, emphasizing the need for clearer development planning in the senior school, more effective use of performance data to inform teaching, and ensuring that all teaching is well-matched to pupils' abilities. Additionally, it suggests enhancing pupils' understanding of healthy relationships and expanding the careers education program to provide information on a broader range of options.

In terms of leadership and management, the report commends the successful creation of a school culture that reflects its Catholic heritage. Governors possess a diverse skill set and demonstrate a good understanding of their responsibilities regarding pupil well-being. However, there are areas where governors could challenge leaders more rigorously regarding the implementation and evaluation of new policies.

The quality of education is rated positively, with leaders establishing a curriculum that meets the needs and interests of pupils. The curriculum is well-structured, allowing for effective progression in subjects such as mathematics, science, and literacy. The report notes that while pupils in the prep school make good progress, there are inconsistencies in the senior school, where some teaching does not fully engage pupils.

Pupils' physical and mental health, as well as their emotional well-being, are prioritized through effective pastoral structures and a supportive environment. The PSHE program provides guidance on healthy relationships and lifestyles, with increased counseling provisions to support pupils' mental health. The report highlights the importance of fostering a positive atmosphere within the school, where pupils feel safe and valued.

The report also emphasizes the significance of pupils' social and economic education, ensuring they are aware of the forces shaping modern society. The curriculum encourages open discussions on challenging issues, promoting respect for diversity and understanding of democratic values. Pupils are encouraged to engage in charitable activities, demonstrating their commitment to the community.

In the early years foundation stage, the report indicates that the overall effectiveness is good, with children making significant progress relative to their starting points. The curriculum is well-planned, catering for the individual needs and interests of children, and staff effectively support their learning and development. The report highlights the importance of strong relationships between staff and children, fostering a secure and nurturing environment.

Leadership and management in the early years are also rated positively, with leaders demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement and effective monitoring of standards. Staff are well-supported and trained, ensuring high-quality education and care for children. The report concludes that the early years provision meets all regulatory requirements and effectively prepares children for their future education.

Overall, the inspection report for Priory School reflects a positive assessment of the school's performance across various domains, highlighting strengths in leadership, curriculum delivery, pupil well-being, and safeguarding practices. The recommendations provided aim to further enhance the quality of education and support for pupils, ensuring that the school continues to meet the needs of its diverse community effectively.