St Patrick's Catholic Primary School in Farnborough, Hampshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 20 and 21 September 2023. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils arrive eager to learn and engage with their peers. From an early age, students are taught the importance of distinguishing right from wrong, supported by strong relationships that create a calm and nurturing atmosphere. A Year 6 pupil highlighted the school's community spirit, noting the love and care shared among students and staff.
The curriculum at St Patrick's is well-structured, allowing pupils to build their knowledge progressively. Students take pride in their work and demonstrate good manners throughout the school day. They respect one another and value diverse perspectives, creating an inclusive environment. When challenges arise, pupils feel supported by friends and staff alike.
Spirituality plays a significant role in the school's ethos, with daily opportunities for self-reflection on moral stories. Pupils thoughtfully consider how these lessons can be applied in their lives. The dedicated staff at St Patrick's are ambitious for their students, ensuring that the curriculum encompasses essential knowledge, skills, and vocabulary. Teachers employ effective teaching strategies, although some may require additional support to enhance learning outcomes for all pupils across various subjects.
The school prioritizes reading, ensuring that pupils develop strong reading skills and a love for literature. Teachers carefully select texts that enrich students' vocabulary and imagination. The early years and Year 1 programs provide a solid foundation for reading, with staff closely monitoring pupils' progress. However, some staff members may lack the necessary expertise to provide targeted support for struggling readers, which can hinder their progress.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive appropriate support, allowing them to achieve well in their studies. Individual plans outline the necessary support for these pupils, and they generally excel in English and mathematics due to attentive teaching. In subjects like art, pupils acquire important knowledge and take pride in their work. However, in some areas of the wider curriculum, teachers do not consistently assess pupils' understanding, which can lead to gaps in knowledge.
Behaviour at St Patrick's is commendable, with pupils displaying politeness and a strong desire to learn. Disruptions in lessons are rare, and staff maintain consistency in managing rewards and consequences, contributing to a calm learning environment. The school offers various opportunities for pupils to explore new experiences and develop their skills, including leadership roles, clubs, and cultural events. Parents appreciate the nurturing atmosphere, with many expressing satisfaction with their children's experiences at the school.
The governing body shares the staff's commitment to student success, aiming to unlock each pupil's potential. The community of governors, staff, and pupils is robust, fostering a supportive educational environment. Safeguarding measures are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all students.
To improve, the school should focus on enhancing staff knowledge in specific subjects to ensure all pupils learn the intended curriculum effectively. Additionally, refining assessment strategies in certain subjects will help teachers identify misconceptions and knowledge gaps more effectively. Overall, St Patrick's Catholic Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a strong foundation for future growth and improvement.
