St Bridget’s Catholic Primary School in Egremont, Cumbria, has recently undergone an inspection, with the overall effectiveness rated as good. The school is characterized by a welcoming and caring environment where pupils, including those in the early years, take pride in their attendance. Positive and respectful relationships are evident among students and staff, fostering a sense of community. Pupils actively engage in helping others through various roles, contributing to a happy atmosphere where everyone feels included.
The school has established clear routines and expectations that promote good behavior across all settings, including lessons and social interactions. Pupils demonstrate politeness and consideration, showing enthusiasm for learning about the wider world. They participate in community engagement and explore different religions, which enhances their understanding and appreciation of diversity. The school encourages pupils to pursue their interests through a variety of clubs and activities, such as choir, cookery, and sports, which contribute to their personal development.
High expectations are set for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Staff effectively support pupils in retaining essential knowledge for future learning, leading to commendable achievements across the curriculum. The school offers a broad and ambitious curriculum that is well-structured, allowing pupils to build their knowledge progressively. Staff utilize assessments to identify gaps in learning, enabling timely adjustments to instruction.
While the school has a clear overview of pupil progress in most subjects, there are a few areas where clarity regarding early years learning outcomes could be improved. This lack of clarity may hinder the school’s ability to ensure that the curriculum adequately prepares children for subsequent educational stages. Nevertheless, children in the early years are nurtured by supportive staff, fostering a safe and secure environment. They engage in activities that promote language development and enjoy storytelling and rhymes, which enhances their communication skills.
The school places a strong emphasis on reading from the outset, with pupils expressing enjoyment in the stories shared by staff. The phonics program is effectively implemented, allowing pupils to learn sounds and letters quickly. Staff receive training to ensure they can teach phonics proficiently, and reading materials are well-aligned with pupils' phonics knowledge, promoting fluency and confidence. Those requiring additional support in reading receive it promptly, contributing to overall success in literacy.
The school prioritizes attendance, with most pupils achieving high attendance rates. Engagement with parents is strong, supporting regular attendance and positively impacting those with lower attendance. Pupils exhibit positive attitudes towards learning, demonstrating diligence and perseverance in their studies. They take pride in their accomplishments and are eager to share their successes.
Personal development is supported through various experiences that broaden pupils' interests and aspirations. They learn about equality and diversity in age-appropriate ways, enhancing their understanding of the world. The school encourages community involvement, with pupils participating in local events and initiatives.
Staff workload considerations are taken into account when implementing curriculum changes, ensuring that teachers receive the necessary training and support. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, contributing to a safe learning environment. Overall, St Bridget’s Catholic Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education, fostering a positive and inclusive atmosphere for all pupils.
