St Mary’s Catholic Primary School in Gillingham, Kent, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on April 25 and 26, 2023. The school provides a welcoming and inclusive environment where all pupils feel valued and respected. The diverse community fosters a strong sense of belonging, and pupils appreciate the emphasis on equality. Relationships among students and staff are characterized by mutual respect, contributing to a safe and friendly atmosphere. Pupils are encouraged to behave well and engage actively in their learning, which is evident during playtimes where they include one another in games and utilize exercise equipment. The school has a low incidence of bullying, and pupils feel confident in reporting any issues, knowing that staff will address them promptly.
The school offers numerous opportunities for pupils to participate in the school community, such as roles in the school council and eco-council, as well as serving as sports captains. Older students support younger ones as reading buddies, fostering a love for reading. Pupils take pride in their contributions, including fundraising for charities through various events. The curriculum is well-balanced and designed to engage pupils, with particular attention given to supporting those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school has a well-organized curriculum that effectively develops knowledge across a wide range of subjects from early years to Year 6. However, some foundation subjects have recently been updated, and leaders have not yet fully assessed the impact of these changes on pupil learning.
Staff demonstrate strong subject knowledge, enabling them to deliver the curriculum effectively. They quickly identify gaps in pupils' knowledge and address them to ensure continuous learning. Teachers adapt activities to ensure that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disadvantaged pupils, can access the curriculum. This inclusive approach prepares pupils well for their future educational journeys. Reading is prioritized, with a clear phonics program in place from early years onwards. Pupils engage with high-quality texts and reading activities daily, which helps them develop a broad vocabulary and strong comprehension skills. The school library is well-stocked, and older pupils take on librarian roles, further promoting a culture of reading.
Pupils generally exhibit good behavior in lessons, following instructions and participating actively. They show enthusiasm for learning and are eager to share their ideas. The personal development curriculum equips pupils for life in modern Britain and as global citizens. A variety of extracurricular activities, including sports and coding clubs, help pupils explore new interests and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Governors are well-informed about the curriculum and hold leaders accountable for ongoing improvements. Most staff feel supported in their professional development, although there are areas for improvement in communication processes regarding staff concerns and well-being.
The safeguarding arrangements at St Mary’s are effective, with robust systems in place to address any concerns swiftly. Staff receive regular training to identify and report safeguarding issues, and leaders work closely with external agencies to support vulnerable pupils. Pupils are educated on how to keep themselves safe, including online safety, with the curriculum tailored to their needs. To enhance the school further, leaders should ensure that subject leaders assess the impact of curriculum improvements and that governors establish clearer processes for staff communication. Overall, St Mary’s Catholic Primary School provides a nurturing and effective educational environment for its pupils, preparing them well for their future.
