Following the short inspection of Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School and Nursery on July 3, 2019, it has been confirmed that the school continues to provide a good quality of education. The leadership team, under the direction of Mrs. Lesley Roach, has effectively maintained and improved the standards since the last inspection in November 2014. The headteacher and senior leadership team have demonstrated strong leadership and a clear vision for school improvement, which is shared by governors and staff. Their commitment to fostering pupils' knowledge, skills, and character is evident in the rigorous changes implemented since Mrs. Roach's appointment in June 2016.
The school has made significant strides in eradicating weak teaching, with leaders making difficult staffing decisions for the long-term benefit of students. The ambition for academic success is complemented by a nurturing environment where love and happiness are prioritized. Parents and carers express high levels of satisfaction with the support and care provided by the staff, highlighting the positive impact on their children's learning and well-being. The multicultural nature of the school is embraced, with a strong emphasis on respect for diversity and inclusion.
In response to previous inspection recommendations, the school has effectively improved achievement in writing and mathematics, particularly for the most able pupils. The leadership has ensured that pupils receive ample opportunities to develop their writing and mathematical skills across various subjects. The outdoor learning environment for Nursery and Reception has also been enhanced, contributing to the overall progress of children in early years.
Pupils demonstrate a positive attitude towards learning, presenting their work well and showing respect for their teachers. They exhibit good behavior and a mature understanding of diversity and inclusion, reflecting the school's ethos. The governors are actively involved in the school's operations, providing a balance of support and challenge, which contributes to a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for development.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with a strong culture of safety embedded throughout the school. All staff are thoroughly vetted, and regular training ensures that they remain informed about child protection issues. The school has established effective systems for monitoring attendance, with a focus on reducing persistent absence through sensitive support for families.
Despite improvements in phonics and reading standards, there remains a need for continued focus on raising attainment in these areas, particularly for Year 1 and Year 2 pupils. The leadership team is aware of the need for ongoing development in teaching practices to ensure that all pupils achieve their potential. The school community is supportive of the leadership's efforts to create stability in staffing, which is essential for sustaining improvements.
Overall, Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School and Nursery is a good school that is committed to continuous improvement. The leadership team is focused on ensuring that all pupils receive a high-quality education and are well-prepared for their future. The positive relationships between staff, pupils, and parents contribute to a thriving school environment where every child is valued and supported in their learning journey. The next steps involve maintaining the momentum of improvement in phonics and reading, addressing persistent absence, and embedding the enhancements in teaching practices to ensure sustained progress.
