Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Primary School in Worcester has been recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on November 28 and 29, 2023. The school fosters a caring community where pupils, parents, and staff express happiness in being part of the environment. Leaders actively engage pupils in learning through a variety of activities and events, ensuring a broad range of learning opportunities for all students. Most pupils achieve well, particularly in reading and mathematics, with timely support provided to those who may fall behind.
The school promotes an inclusive culture, encouraging pupils to celebrate differences. Staff model positive behavior and help students understand the importance of building healthy relationships. The school welcomes pupils who join at various times throughout the year, including those new to the country, ensuring they receive the necessary support to integrate into the community. The initiative known as purple powers teaches pupils about positive learning behaviors and civic responsibility, with many students taking pride in representing the school in local events.
Since the last inspection, the school has made significant improvements to its curriculum. In most subjects, the school has clearly identified the essential knowledge and skills for pupils to learn. Staff have received training to effectively deliver this curriculum. However, in a few subjects, the school has not fully ensured that learning sequences build on prior knowledge or develop specific skills, which can hinder some pupils' achievements.
Reading is a priority at the school, with a curriculum designed to encourage a love of reading. Pupils are provided with a diverse selection of books from various cultures and time periods, and they are encouraged to read frequently both at school and at home. Staff and pupils share book recommendations, and phonics training has been effectively implemented across the school.
In the early years, children benefit from high-quality learning experiences facilitated by well-trained staff. They demonstrate readiness for formal learning and develop social skills through play. Children with additional needs receive appropriate support to access the same learning opportunities as their peers, fostering positive relationships with the adults who assist them.
Assessment practices are utilized effectively, allowing staff to identify when pupils struggle and address these issues promptly. Pupils understand the importance of independent problem-solving while knowing when to seek help. Some leaders have a solid grasp of how their subjects are improving, but in a few areas, there is a lack of clarity regarding the national curriculum's aims and their impact on learning.
All pupils are expected to engage with the full curriculum, including those with special educational needs. The school collaborates with parents and external agencies to identify barriers to learning and implement high-quality support plans. Most pupils exhibit good behavior, allowing for a conducive learning environment, and attendance is generally high, with ongoing efforts to improve the attendance of a small number of pupils.
The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities that align with pupils' interests. Initiatives like the Mini Vinnies team encourage civic responsibility, while being part of the pupils' parliament instills a sense of pride among participants. The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all students.
To further improve, the school needs to clarify the specific knowledge and skills it aims for pupils to learn in certain subjects, ensuring that learning is interconnected and builds progressively. Additionally, it should enhance support for subject leaders to design and assess effective learning sequences across the curriculum. Overall, Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
