St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in Medlar-with-Wesham has recently undergone an inspection, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of Good. The inspection took place on 27 and 28 February 2024, and the school has maintained a positive reputation since its last inspection, which was rated Outstanding twelve years ago. The school has experienced significant changes in staffing over the years, but the current leadership has established a more stable environment. The new headteacher has focused on curriculum development, ensuring that pupils have access to a broad and balanced education that is engaging and well-structured.
Pupils at St Joseph’s enjoy their time at school, feeling safe and supported by trusted adults. They are enthusiastic about learning and demonstrate good behavior throughout the school day. The school has high expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Most pupils achieve well, and the school promotes a positive atmosphere where pupils can thrive academically and socially. During social times, pupils engage in various activities, including popular events like Wheelie Wednesdays, which allow them to use their scooters.
The school has implemented an effective reading program, with well-trained staff delivering lessons that engage pupils from the early years. Regular assessments help identify any misconceptions, and pupils are provided with individual support as needed. Most pupils become fluent readers by the end of key stage one, and they enjoy the diverse range of books shared by their teachers. The curriculum includes texts that promote understanding of different cultures, fostering empathy and stimulating discussions among pupils.
While the school excels in many areas, there are some aspects that require improvement. In certain subjects, the key learning objectives have not been clearly defined, which can hinder teachers' ability to identify gaps in pupils' prior knowledge. The school is working on developing assessment strategies to better track pupils' learning and ensure that they build on their existing knowledge. The leadership is aware of these challenges and is taking steps to enhance the curriculum design in these subjects.
The school promotes a strong sense of community involvement, with pupils participating in charity work and representing the school in various sporting events. Older pupils take on responsibilities, such as organizing clubs for their peers, and members of the eco council actively engage in recycling initiatives. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, responding to pupils' interests and ensuring that all students have opportunities to participate.
Governance at St Joseph’s is effective, with governors providing support and challenge to the school. The leadership team is committed to minimizing the impact of necessary changes on staff workload, which has contributed to a positive working environment. The school has established effective safeguarding arrangements, ensuring that pupils' welfare is prioritized.
Overall, St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education for its pupils. The school has made significant strides in curriculum development and maintains a supportive and engaging environment for learning. With ongoing efforts to refine assessment strategies and curriculum design, the school is well-positioned to continue its positive trajectory and enhance the educational experience for all its students.
