St Joseph's Catholic Primary School in Wetherby has been recognized for its outstanding performance during the inspection conducted on 23-24 October 2013. The school has shown remarkable progress since its previous inspection, where it was rated as good. The current inspection highlighted that the achievement of pupils is outstanding, with students making rapid progress in English and mathematics from the moment they enter the school. By the end of Year 6, pupils achieve standards significantly above the national average.
The quality of teaching at St Joseph's is also rated as outstanding. Lessons are engaging and well-structured, with teachers demonstrating a deep understanding of their pupils' individual needs. This allows them to tailor their teaching effectively, ensuring that all students can progress quickly. Teaching assistants play a crucial role in supporting pupils' learning, contributing significantly to their overall progress. The school environment is supportive and nurturing, which fosters a love for learning among pupils, reflected in their above-average attendance rates.
Behaviour and safety at the school are exemplary. Pupils exhibit outstanding behaviour both in lessons and around the school, treating each other and staff with respect. They feel safe and secure, with a strong understanding of the rules and routines that guide their conduct. Incidents of bullying are rare, and pupils are well-informed about how to handle and prevent bullying. The school promotes a culture of responsibility, with opportunities for pupils to take on roles that contribute positively to the school community.
Leadership and management at St Joseph's are also outstanding. The headteacher provides strong leadership, fostering a culture of high expectations and continuous improvement. He is supported by a capable deputy headteacher and a committed leadership team. While middle leaders contribute effectively to the school's leadership, there is a recognized need for further development of their skills to enhance their impact on teaching and learning. The school's self-evaluation processes are accurate, and leaders are ambitious for the school's future, actively seeking opportunities for collaboration to drive improvement.
The curriculum at St Joseph's is stimulating and well-planned, offering a range of exciting opportunities that broaden pupils' horizons. The governing body possesses a diverse set of skills and expertise, which greatly benefits the school. They work closely with the school to ensure that the needs of all pupils are met effectively.
The inspection team observed a variety of lessons and engaged with various stakeholders, including pupils, staff, and governors. They found that the school meets the government's current floor standards, indicating that it provides a satisfactory level of education. The school has also received recognition for its commitment to health and inclusion, holding the Healthy Schools Award and Inclusion Mark.
To further improve, the school aims to develop the skills of middle leaders to ensure they can make a significant contribution to the school's ongoing success. Overall, St Joseph's Catholic Primary School is an excellent educational institution that provides a high-quality learning experience for its pupils, preparing them well for their future educational journeys.