St Mary's Catholic Primary School in Claughton-on-Brock has been recognized for its outstanding performance during the inspection conducted on November 9, 2012. The school has shown significant improvement since its previous inspection, where it was rated as good. The current inspection highlights the school’s exceptional effectiveness in various areas, including the achievement of pupils, quality of teaching, behavior and safety, and leadership and management.
The school is characterized by a warm and caring environment, which fosters spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development among its pupils. This nurturing atmosphere contributes to the development of mature and responsible attitudes towards learning and interpersonal relationships. Pupils exhibit outstanding behavior, feeling safe and secure within the school community. They are proud of their school and actively participate in various activities, demonstrating enthusiasm and a strong commitment to school life. Attendance rates are above average, reflecting the positive school culture.
Pupils at St Mary's achieve excellent academic results, with all students, including those with special educational needs, making at least good progress in English and mathematics. Many pupils exceed expected progress, resulting in attainment levels that are well above average. The strong foundation laid in the Early Years Foundation Stage, combined with tailored learning experiences, ensures that pupils' individual needs and abilities are met effectively as they progress through the school.
The quality of teaching is outstanding, with lessons that are well-planned and challenging. Teachers employ a variety of activities that cater to different abilities, ensuring that all pupils are engaged and supported in their learning. Feedback on pupils' work is thorough, although there is room for improvement in providing opportunities for pupils to respond to this feedback. Reading is prioritized, and pupils demonstrate a strong enthusiasm for reading, which supports their learning across all subjects.
The headteacher's inspirational leadership plays a crucial role in the school's success. The leadership team, staff, governors, and parents work collaboratively towards a shared vision for the school, resulting in continuous improvements in achievement and teaching quality. Parents express high levels of satisfaction regarding their children's learning experiences, the quality of teaching, and the school's commitment to safety.
The inspection also noted the school's effective governance, with governors actively involved in school life and contributing valuable insights into school performance. The local authority provides light-touch support, recognizing the school as an example of good practice.
To further enhance the educational experience, the school is encouraged to increase pupils' involvement in their learning by providing more opportunities to respond to teachers' marking. Overall, St Mary's Catholic Primary School exemplifies excellence in education, ensuring that pupils are well-prepared for their future endeavors. The school's commitment to high standards and continuous improvement is evident in its outstanding inspection results, making it a model for other institutions.
