Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Primary School, located in Bentley, Doncaster, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 23, 2021. The school has a strong reputation among its pupils, who express pride in their school and feel safe and supported by their teachers. The staff maintain high expectations for all students, including those who are disadvantaged or have special educational needs and disabilities. Pupils are engaged in their learning and appreciate the rewards they receive for their efforts and contributions to school life.
The school fosters a positive environment where pupils feel confident in approaching staff with any concerns. Bullying is rare and not tolerated, contributing to a strong sense of community and equality among students. Parents also express satisfaction with the school's efforts, noting its family-like atmosphere and the attention given to the individual needs of their children.
The curriculum at Our Lady of Perpetual Help is well-structured and designed to meet the diverse needs of all pupils. Leaders have carefully sequenced the curriculum from early years to Year 6, ensuring that essential knowledge is identified and taught effectively. This approach allows pupils to build on their prior knowledge and supports their learning journey. Reading and phonics instruction is particularly effective, enabling young learners to acquire new sounds quickly and develop a love for reading. The school library is a source of pride, offering a wide selection of books that cater to various reading levels.
In early years, children demonstrate strong cooperation and confidence in their learning environment. Activities are thoughtfully planned to enhance their listening skills and mathematical understanding. The mathematics curriculum is organized logically, with clear objectives that help pupils engage in problem-solving and peer discussions. Staff are attentive to the needs of pupils with special educational needs, providing appropriate resources and support.
Subject leaders for geography and science have developed structured curricula that encourage pride in pupils' work. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the assessment of learning in some subjects. Consistent assessment practices are needed to ensure that misconceptions are addressed and that pupils achieve a deeper understanding of the material.
Pupils learn about democracy through participation in a school parliament, where they elect representatives to voice their ideas and contribute to school improvements. This initiative fosters a sense of responsibility and engagement in the school community. The leadership team has cultivated a strong team spirit among staff, prioritizing their well-being and workload, which contributes to a positive working environment.
The school's safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of vigilance among staff. Regular training ensures that all staff members understand their responsibilities in safeguarding pupils. The school collaborates with external agencies to provide support for families in need, and pupils receive education on safety topics, including road safety and online safety.
To enhance its effectiveness, the school should focus on improving the assessment practices in certain subjects. By developing the role of curriculum leaders to better support teachers in assessing learning tasks, the school can ensure that all pupils receive the guidance they need to succeed. Overall, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Primary School continues to provide a nurturing and effective educational environment for its pupils.
