Ofsted conducted a short inspection of St Bernard’s Catholic Primary School in Preston on 11 May 2017, marking the first inspection since the school was rated as good in September 2012. The inspection confirmed that the school continues to maintain its good status. The leadership team has effectively upheld the quality of education, fostering a strong ethos centered around the school’s Catholic values. The headteacher, staff, and governors demonstrate ambition for the pupils, creating an inclusive community where everyone feels valued.
In response to previous inspection recommendations, the school has successfully increased parental involvement in supporting their children’s reading and writing skills. Initiatives such as reading sessions for parents and information sessions led by staff have been implemented. The use of a school app to inform parents about weekly learning objectives has also enhanced engagement. Additionally, the school has addressed the need for greater challenge for the most able pupils in key stage two, particularly in English. Focused meetings to discuss the progress of these pupils and improved questioning techniques by staff have been introduced, although further work is needed to ensure consistent challenges for all capable students.
Pupils express pride in their school, feeling valued and well-supported. They report positive relationships with staff, who are described as kind and helpful. Behaviour is commendable across all settings, and the majority of staff feel proud to work at the school, trusting the leadership team. Parents and carers appreciate the approachable nature of the headteacher and the supportive atmosphere of the school, with many praising the inclusive environment.
Middle leaders play a crucial role in tracking pupil progress and ensuring support for those who struggle. They have a clear understanding of the school’s improvement needs and are actively involved in implementing necessary changes. Governors are committed and possess a diverse range of skills, regularly visiting the school to understand its operations and challenge leaders on improvement strategies.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with leaders ensuring that arrangements are robust and well-documented. All staff have completed safeguarding training and are aware of procedures for reporting concerns. Pupils feel safe and well-cared for, reporting that bullying is rare and that staff respond promptly to any issues.
The inspection focused on the progress of pupils in writing across key stages one and two. The leadership team has identified and addressed weaknesses in spelling, grammar, and vocabulary, implementing effective strategies to enhance pupil progress. There is a strong emphasis on accurate spelling and punctuation, and pupils are making good progress in writing, although some of the most able pupils are not yet achieving at greater depth due to insufficient challenges.
Another area of inquiry was the progress of disadvantaged pupils in reading and writing. The school has effectively utilized pupil premium funding to provide additional teaching sessions, resulting in these pupils making progress comparable to their peers nationally. The introduction of more challenging texts has also engaged pupils in their learning.
Attendance rates are above average, with robust systems in place to monitor and address pupil absence. The school has successfully improved attendance for disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs, ensuring that these groups are now above the national average.
Next steps for the school include maintaining a focus on improving pupils’ writing achievement and providing greater challenges for the most able pupils to reach their highest potential.
