St Osburg’s Catholic Primary School in Coventry has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 30-31 October 2019. The school is characterized by a strong sense of pride among its pupils, who engage actively in a diverse curriculum that includes sports and music. The students participate in local competitions, which fosters their confidence and ambition. The school environment promotes positive relationships among pupils and staff, with excellent behavior observed throughout the premises. Pupils feel secure and understand that any form of bullying is not tolerated, knowing that teachers will intervene if necessary.
The school offers a variety of enriching activities, such as historical reenactments and community events, which help pupils connect with their learning and the wider world. Leaders maintain high expectations for all students, ensuring an inclusive atmosphere that provides necessary support for families in need. The early years program is particularly well-structured, allowing young children to thrive both indoors and outdoors. Consistent routines help children adapt quickly, preparing them effectively for future learning.
St Osburg’s excels in teaching reading, with phonics instruction beginning in Nursery. The emphasis on reading continues throughout the school, resulting in most pupils achieving fluency by Year 3. Additional support is available for those who require it, and initiatives like the ‘bedtime box’ encourage family engagement in reading. However, there are some concerns regarding the matching of reading materials to pupils' phonics knowledge, which can hinder their practice.
In mathematics, teachers are adept at tailoring instruction to meet the varying needs of pupils, ensuring that all students, including those with special educational needs, receive appropriate challenges. Practical applications of mathematics are integrated into lessons, enhancing pupils' understanding through real-life contexts. History lessons are engaging, with pupils learning about significant historical figures and participating in discussions. However, there is a need for improvement in retaining historical knowledge over time, as the current assessment methods do not effectively reinforce learning.
Leadership at St Osburg’s is strong, with a focus on staff well-being contributing to a positive school culture. Staff express pride in their work environment, describing it as cheerful and supportive. Parents also speak highly of the school, particularly appreciating the care and guidance provided to their children and families. This nurturing approach is a notable strength of the school, which serves as a vital educational resource within the city.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with leaders prioritizing the welfare of pupils. Staff are well-trained to recognize and address any concerns regarding student safety. The school collaborates with external organizations to ensure that pupils and their families receive the necessary support.
To enhance its performance, the school needs to focus on improving the retention of knowledge in history and geography, ensuring that pupils can build on their learning in future years. Additionally, aligning reading resources more closely with pupils' phonics skills will further support their reading development. Overall, St Osburg’s Catholic Primary School continues to provide a solid educational foundation for its pupils, preparing them well for their future endeavors.
