Cottesmore St. Mary’s Catholic Primary School in Hove, East Sussex, has been evaluated as a good school overall, with specific strengths in personal development, quality of education, behavior, and attitudes. The inspection took place on 21 and 22 February 2023, and the school has maintained its good rating since the previous inspection in November 2017. The school is characterized by high expectations from its leaders, who foster an environment where pupils are encouraged to believe in themselves and develop resilience and curiosity. Pupils enjoy their lessons and take pride in their work, particularly in reading, which is emphasized through the school’s ‘Cottesmore Reading Spine.’
Positive relationships are evident throughout the school, with staff promoting a culture of support, respect, and positivity. Pupils feel safe and happy, demonstrating good behavior and cooperation during playtimes. The school effectively addresses bullying, ensuring that pupils are confident in reporting any issues, knowing they will be dealt with promptly. Beyond the curriculum, pupils have access to a wide range of enriching experiences, including forest and beach school activities, as well as various clubs and trips that help them develop diverse skills and talents.
The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, aiming to ensure that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, achieve their potential. Leaders have provided staff with the necessary training and resources to teach effectively, particularly in reading and mathematics, where pupils show strong retention of knowledge. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in subjects like science and geography, where some pupils struggle to articulate their learning and connect it to prior knowledge. Leaders are actively working to address these gaps by providing more opportunities for pupils to revisit and reinforce their learning.
Reading is a central focus of the curriculum, with effective phonics instruction enabling pupils to develop strong early reading skills. Teachers ensure that reading materials are well-matched to pupils’ abilities, fostering a love for reading across all year groups. The mathematics curriculum is also robust, with teachers demonstrating strong subject knowledge and effectively supporting pupils in their learning.
Personal development is a notable strength of the school, with pupils actively engaging in community initiatives and demonstrating a strong moral compass. They participate in projects such as recycling campaigns and learn about different cultures and communities, enhancing their social awareness. The school council plays a vital role in promoting initiatives like Fairtrade purchasing, further embedding a sense of responsibility among pupils.
Leadership and management are effective, with a focus on staff well-being and workload management. Governors are committed to supporting the school’s continuous improvement, working closely with the headteacher and senior leaders to monitor progress against development priorities. The safeguarding arrangements are robust, with a strong culture of safety and well-trained staff who are vigilant in identifying and addressing any concerns.
While the school has many strengths, it recognizes the need to refine the curriculum further to ensure that all pupils can retain and apply their learning across subjects. By continuing to address these areas, Cottesmore St. Mary’s Catholic Primary School aims to enhance its educational offerings and support all pupils in achieving their best.
