St Francis Xavier Catholic Primary School in Doncaster has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 30 and 31, 2024. The school provides a nurturing and supportive environment where pupils feel welcomed and valued. The positive atmosphere is evident as students are polite and respectful, contributing to a culture of kindness. The school encourages social interaction through initiatives like the ‘friendship stop’ in the playground, which helps students connect with peers and combat loneliness.
The staff at St Francis Xavier set high expectations for their students, who respond with enthusiasm and a strong commitment to their learning. The curriculum is designed to build progressively complex knowledge, ensuring that pupils enjoy their lessons and retain what they learn. The school offers a variety of extracurricular clubs, such as Scotty’s Heroes, choir, and sports club, which are well-attended and foster teamwork and personal development. Additionally, the school organizes trips to the beach, providing students with valuable life experiences beyond the classroom.
Pupil behavior is commendable, with students quickly settling into their learning and managing their interactions well during break times. The school prioritizes safety, and students are aware of whom to approach if they have concerns. The leadership team has developed a curriculum that effectively prepares pupils for future educational stages, with a focus on continuity from early years through to Year 6. For instance, early years students learn about plant growth, which is linked to later science lessons, reinforcing their understanding of the world.
Pupils demonstrate a strong ability to recall and connect their learning across subjects, particularly in mathematics, where they apply their knowledge of fractions effectively. The school is currently implementing a new mathematics curriculum, which, while progressing well, still requires further embedding to ensure consistent understanding among all pupils.
Reading is highly valued at St Francis Xavier, with a robust phonics program in place. Staff receive training to deliver this program effectively, enabling pupils to become confident readers. The school regularly assesses students to identify those needing additional support, ensuring that all pupils can keep pace with their peers. The emphasis on language development is evident in every lesson, helping students expand their vocabulary and comprehension skills.
The school has high aspirations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, who receive the necessary support to achieve well. However, the outcomes for Year 6 pupils in 2023 did not fully reflect the quality of education provided, largely due to the disruptions caused by the pandemic.
In the early years, children benefit from a well-structured curriculum that fosters essential skills and learning attributes. Their routines are well-established, allowing them to focus on their learning and play effectively. The school maintains a strong focus on attendance, working closely with families to achieve high attendance rates.
St Francis Xavier promotes personal development through various leadership opportunities, including the school council and eco club, where students engage in community improvement initiatives. The leadership team, governors, and the diocese share a unified vision for the school, aiming to prepare pupils for future challenges in modern Britain. Staff feel supported and valued, contributing to a positive work environment. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all students. Overall, St Francis Xavier Catholic Primary School continues to provide a good quality of education, with a commitment to continuous improvement.
