Our Lady’s Catholic Primary School in Dartford has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 11-12, 2020. The school fosters a vibrant and enthusiastic learning environment where pupils express high levels of satisfaction. Students feel a strong sense of belonging, describing the school as a family where they develop meaningful friendships and support one another. The school community upholds its values and ethos, contributing to a safe and happy atmosphere for all pupils.
Pupils exhibit exceptional politeness and kindness towards visitors and each other, reflecting the high expectations set by the staff. Their behavior is commendable both in lessons and throughout the school day, and they appreciate the recognition they receive for their good conduct. Instances of bullying are rare, and pupils trust the staff to address any issues promptly.
The school encourages pupils to take on various responsibilities, such as digital leaders who promote online safety through assemblies and informative materials. Pupils also benefit from a range of enriching experiences, including educational trips and extracurricular clubs, which enhance their learning and engagement.
The leadership team has developed an ambitious curriculum with clear objectives aimed at fostering successful learners who are curious about the world. The curriculum is well-structured, outlining the necessary skills and knowledge for each year group. While the curriculum excels in subjects like English, mathematics, and science, it is still evolving in areas such as art and geography, where pupils are beginning to acquire essential skills.
Teachers receive high-quality training to ensure they possess the necessary subject knowledge to deliver effective lessons. Recent training in art has empowered teachers to confidently teach various artistic techniques, resulting in pupils developing their skills as artists. The school places a strong emphasis on reading, with pupils achieving high standards in national assessments.
Practical learning experiences are integral to the curriculum, allowing pupils to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts. For instance, Year 3 pupils learned to navigate using maps and compass directions, culminating in a local area walk. The school ensures that all pupils, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds, have access to a wide range of opportunities, including trips abroad.
Pupils demonstrate eagerness to learn and maintain good behavior in lessons, contributing to a positive learning environment. Parents and carers appreciate the nurturing atmosphere created by the staff, with many describing the school as fantastic for fostering both academic and personal development.
The early years curriculum is effective, providing ample opportunities for children to develop foundational skills in numeracy and literacy. Staff are well-trained in phonics instruction, enabling children to quickly learn to read and write simple sentences. The transition into Reception is smooth, with parents valuing the care provided by the staff.
The school has established a robust safeguarding culture, with all staff aware of their responsibilities and trained to recognize potential risks to pupils. The designated safeguarding lead maintains thorough records and ensures that staff training is current.
To further improve, the school must focus on embedding the curriculum in subjects like art and geography to ensure pupils achieve high standards across all areas. Overall, Our Lady’s Catholic Primary School continues to provide a supportive and effective educational experience for its pupils.
