St Patrick’s Catholic Primary School in Leeds has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 26 and 27, 2024. The school is characterized by a welcoming and friendly atmosphere where pupils feel safe and thrive. They are eager to learn and meet the high expectations set by their teachers. The behavior of pupils is commendable, as they demonstrate kindness and respect towards one another. Established routines in lessons contribute to a focused learning environment, allowing pupils to remain on task and make significant progress.
Pupils enjoy attending school and learning alongside their friends. They possess a strong sense of fairness and believe in treating others equally. Relationships within the school are harmonious, and instances of bullying are reported to be rare. Pupils trust that adults will assist them with any concerns they may have. They are educated on how to stay safe both in the community and online, understanding potential risks and appropriate responses.
The school encourages pupils to take on responsibilities through various leadership roles, such as participating in the school council and serving as reading ambassadors. These roles allow pupils to contribute meaningfully to the school and local community, fostering a sense of pride in their school.
The curriculum at St Patrick’s is broad and balanced, well-organized, and carefully sequenced. Teachers exhibit strong subject knowledge and present information clearly. They effectively identify gaps in learning and address misconceptions as they arise. Pupils are able to use appropriate subject-specific vocabulary and demonstrate enjoyment in subjects like mathematics, where they confidently recall what they have learned. However, in some foundation subjects, such as history, pupils have not developed the same depth of knowledge, indicating that certain aspects of the curriculum require further development.
The school has established effective practices for the early identification of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities. This includes collaboration with external professionals and ongoing staff training, ensuring that these pupils receive the necessary support to access learning alongside their peers, which aids their progress.
In the early years, children follow a well-structured curriculum that prepares them for Year 1. They engage in activities that reinforce key vocabulary and concepts, such as distinguishing between different shapes. Phonics instruction begins in Reception, with trained adults providing effective support to help pupils catch up quickly if they need additional assistance. A strong reading culture exists within the school, with pupils expressing enthusiasm for reading and discussing various texts.
Pupils understand the importance of physical and mental health, engaging in games and social activities during breaks. They have opportunities to explore their interests in sports, crafts, dance, and music, with all pupils, including those with special educational needs, participating. The school organizes residential visits and trips to local attractions, enriching pupils' experiences beyond the classroom.
The personal, social, and health education program is well-structured and responsive to pupils' needs, promoting values of tolerance and respect. Pupils learn about healthy relationships and embrace diversity, demonstrating knowledge about different beliefs and faiths. The school prepares pupils for life in modern Britain by teaching them about fundamental British values.
Leaders and governors are attentive to staff workload and well-being, fostering a supportive team environment. Staff express happiness and pride in their work at the school, and parents overwhelmingly support the school, appreciating the assistance their children receive. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school is encouraged to continue developing its curriculum to ensure all pupils achieve a similar depth of knowledge across all subjects.
