St Margaret Clitherow Roman Catholic Primary School in Stevenage, Hertfordshire, was inspected on 14 and 15 May 2024, receiving an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has maintained a strong reputation since its last inspection, which occurred eleven years ago and resulted in an outstanding rating. The current inspection reflects the school's commitment to providing a high-quality education while adapting to changes in the educational landscape.
Pupils at St Margaret Clitherow enjoy their time at school and respond positively to the high expectations set by the staff. The school offers a variety of trips that enrich the educational experience for all year groups, including Nursery. The pupils demonstrate kindness and a caring attitude, often volunteering their free time to assist one another, such as Year 6 students helping younger pupils with reading. The school's eco-group actively contributes to the development of the school grounds, fostering a sense of responsibility and community among the students.
The learning environment is characterized by minimal disruption during lessons, and lunchtimes are filled with joyful and harmonious interactions among pupils. The school excels in creating an inclusive atmosphere where all pupils feel welcome. Staff are dedicated to ensuring that there are no barriers to participation in extracurricular activities, leading to high levels of engagement in various clubs, including those for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities.
Pupils are taught the importance of helping those less fortunate, engaging in charitable activities such as collecting food and clothing for a charity in Uganda. They are encouraged to make meaningful decisions regarding the allocation of funds raised for these causes, promoting a sense of social responsibility.
The school has clearly defined the knowledge that pupils need to acquire and the timeline for learning it. This clarity enables teachers to effectively plan their lessons across the curriculum, focusing on essential vocabulary that deepens pupils' understanding. However, some subjects have recently updated curriculum plans that are still being refined, which may result in gaps in knowledge for some pupils, particularly those transitioning from Reception to Year 1.
Teachers are adept at assessing pupils' understanding and revisiting recent learning, ensuring that most pupils retain what they have been taught. Nevertheless, some pupils struggle with broader concepts due to difficulties in connecting prior learning from previous years. In the early years, staff have established positive relationships with children, allowing them to identify and address gaps in knowledge effectively.
The school has a strong approach to teaching early reading, with staff trained to utilize reading resources consistently. This ensures that pupils are confident in recognizing the sounds they need to know by the end of Year 1. If pupils fall behind, staff provide immediate support to help them catch up. Children in Reception display enthusiasm for reading, particularly during phonics sessions, leading to their development as fluent readers.
The school has effective systems in place for the early identification of pupils with special educational needs. Staff collaborate closely with parents to provide timely support, enabling these pupils to meet their specific targets successfully. A comprehensive personal development curriculum equips pupils with essential knowledge about treating others and staying safe. Older pupils take pride in their contributions, such as assisting younger students and participating in community initiatives.
Leadership, governance, and staff work collaboratively to create a positive learning environment. Governors provide appropriate challenge and support, ensuring that the school meets its statutory obligations. The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, contributing to a safe and nurturing environment for all pupils. Overall, St Margaret Clitherow Roman Catholic Primary School demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement and the well-being of its students.
