St Joseph’s RC Primary School in Salford has undergone a recent inspection, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The inspection took place on 29 and 30 March 2022, marking a significant improvement from the previous inspection, which rated the school as requiring improvement. The school is characterized by a positive atmosphere where pupils are happy and form strong friendships. They feel safe due to the care provided by leaders and staff, who foster kindness and respect for the diverse culture within the school and the wider community.
Pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, enjoy their learning experiences. The school has high expectations for all students, and the curriculum is carefully planned and well delivered, leading to good achievement across various subjects. From early years through to the rest of the school, pupils are introduced to challenging vocabulary that enhances their ability to articulate their knowledge. They express enthusiasm and understanding regarding their learning experiences.
Behaviour at St Joseph’s is commendable, with pupils adhering to high standards set by the school. They understand the concept of bullying and are confident that any incidents will be addressed effectively by staff. The school environment encourages pupils to engage in outdoor activities, which enrich their curriculum and support personal development. Additionally, pupils have access to various trips and clubs that broaden their experiences.
The school excels in providing a challenging and enjoyable curriculum for all pupils, including those with special educational needs. Leaders have identified essential knowledge for pupils to learn and support teachers effectively, resulting in good achievement in most subjects. However, there are a few areas where teachers' subject knowledge is not as strong, which can hinder the delivery of the ambitious curriculum. In these subjects, assessment strategies may not effectively identify pupils' understanding, limiting their progress.
Teachers generally select activities that reinforce learning, allowing pupils to revisit concepts and recall information. The early years' communication-rich environment promotes language skills effectively, preparing children well for Year 1. Leaders prioritize reading development, ensuring pupils have access to suitable materials and that staff are trained to deliver phonics programs effectively. This approach helps pupils build their reading skills, and they demonstrate accuracy and fluency in their reading.
Pupils display politeness, respect, and care for one another, contributing to a conducive learning environment. They participate in creating behaviour guidelines, fostering a sense of fairness among students. The school promotes the value of diversity, enriching the curriculum with activities that enhance pupils' understanding of different beliefs and abilities. Engagement with external agencies further supports pupils' awareness of safety in various contexts.
Pupils with special educational needs are fully included in school life, with leaders ensuring they receive appropriate support. The school leadership is committed to maintaining a reasonable workload for staff, and governance has improved, with governors actively supporting and challenging school leadership.
The safeguarding arrangements at St Joseph’s are effective, with a strong culture of safeguarding evident throughout the school. Staff receive appropriate training to remain vigilant and responsive to concerns. Year 6 pupils express enthusiasm about activities that enhance their understanding of risks and safety in their community, indicating that staff listen to their views.
To improve further, the school needs to ensure that all teachers receive adequate training to enhance their subject knowledge and assessment strategies. This will enable them to deliver the curriculum effectively and support pupils' learning more comprehensively. Overall, St Joseph’s RC Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive environment for all pupils.
