St Helen’s Catholic Primary School, located in Hoyland, Barnsley, continues to be recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 4, 2023. The school is characterized by a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, deeply rooted in the community. Pupils, staff, and parents describe the school as a family environment filled with kindness, where Christian values are integral to daily life. These values are reflected in the supportive and caring interactions among pupils, fostering a culture of respect and compassion.
The leadership team at St Helen’s has high expectations for all students, ensuring they receive a quality education from the moment they enter the school. Pupils exhibit good behavior and feel secure, knowing they are cared for by attentive adults. Instances of bullying are rare, which speaks to the positive culture cultivated by the school community. In response to the challenges posed by the pandemic, leaders have increased opportunities for extracurricular activities, recognizing their importance in broadening pupils' understanding of the world. For instance, Year 2 pupils shared their excitement about a trip to Worsbrough Mill, where they learned about the process of making flour from wheat.
The curriculum has been strengthened to ensure it is ambitious and begins in the early years. Leaders have carefully considered the knowledge they want pupils to acquire and remember, with a focus on vocabulary development across subjects. Most subjects build on prior learning effectively, allowing pupils to deepen their understanding as they progress through mixed-age classes. However, there are a few subjects where the curriculum is less well developed.
Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and engage pupils effectively in lessons. Most pupils enjoy their learning experiences and pay close attention to their teachers. Teachers regularly assess pupils' understanding of key knowledge and address any gaps promptly, particularly for those in the early stages of learning to read. The school has prioritized reading, and this focus has become a strength, with leaders ensuring that all pupils receive the necessary support to develop their reading skills.
While staff know their pupils well and have been provided with support plans for those with special educational needs and disabilities, there is a need for better training to ensure these plans are implemented consistently. As a result, some pupils with SEND may not receive the support they require, which can hinder their progress. New leaders have identified this as a priority for improvement.
Pupils understand their role in fostering a positive school culture, demonstrating kindness and respect towards one another. They possess a strong knowledge of Christianity but struggle to recall information about other faiths and beliefs, indicating a need for more comprehensive education in this area.
Governors bring a wealth of experience to their roles, effectively guiding and challenging school leaders. They are mindful of staff well-being and workload, ensuring that staff feel supported and valued. Recent changes in leadership require time to settle, and governors are committed to monitoring the curriculum's effectiveness to ensure it meets the needs of all pupils.
The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place, with staff trained to recognize and respond to potential risks to pupils. Leaders take swift action when concerns arise, ensuring that pupils and their families receive the necessary support. Pupils are educated on how to keep themselves safe, including online safety, and are encouraged to report any concerns to trusted adults.
In summary, St Helen’s Catholic Primary School is a good school that provides a nurturing environment for its pupils. While there are areas for improvement, particularly regarding support for pupils with SEND and the teaching of world religions, the school demonstrates a commitment to continuous development and the well-being of its students.
