St Mary’s Roman Catholic Primary School in Chipping has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on July 13, 2022. The school fosters a strong sense of community among its pupils, who take pride in being part of the school family. They enjoy their time at school, engage positively with one another, and ensure inclusivity among their peers. The behavior of the pupils is commendable; they are polite, well-mannered, and respectful. The school is described as a happy place by pupils, parents, carers, and staff alike.
The leadership and staff at St Mary’s are dedicated to the academic and personal growth of all pupils. They aim for pupils to reach their full potential while also providing a diverse range of learning experiences. Pupils, including those in the early years, demonstrate the ability to work both independently and collaboratively. The school effectively supports nearly all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they achieve well.
High expectations for pupil behavior are set by the staff, and pupils generally meet these expectations. They maintain positive relationships with their teachers and enjoy their interactions with friends. In instances where bullying or name-calling occurs, pupils are confident that staff will address these issues promptly. The school offers numerous extracurricular activities that nurture pupils' interests and talents outside of regular school hours. Educational trips to the theatre and various places of worship enhance pupils' cultural understanding and appreciation of diversity. Older pupils have taken on ambassador roles, promoting environmental awareness and engaging with the community through charitable initiatives.
The curriculum at St Mary’s is broad and engaging, tailored to the needs of a small school. It is well-developed across most subjects and ambitious for all pupils, including those with special educational needs. The curriculum clearly outlines the knowledge pupils are expected to learn and the sequence in which it should be taught. This structured approach allows for logical progression in learning, particularly evident in subjects like mathematics.
However, in a few subjects, the subject leaders lack the specific expertise needed to provide effective guidance to staff. This gap can hinder the development of pupils' knowledge in those areas. The school has prioritized reading, with teachers effectively promoting it and ensuring access to a diverse range of books. Most pupils become confident readers and enjoy discussing their favorite books and authors.
Pupils with special educational needs are quickly identified and supported, ensuring they have access to the same curriculum as their peers. The school collaborates well with parents and external professionals to provide necessary assistance. Leaders recognize the importance of broadening pupils' understanding of society beyond their local community. Pupils participate in various cultural, sporting, and historical events, fostering their understanding of equality and diversity.
The school environment promotes health and fitness, with a variety of sports clubs and activities available. Pupils also engage in gardening, growing their own fruits and vegetables, which they can cook and enjoy. Overall, pupils exhibit good behavior throughout the school day, contributing positively to the learning environment. The governing body is well-informed about the school and considers staff well-being in decision-making, leading to a supportive atmosphere for teachers. The safeguarding measures in place are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school continues to strive for improvement, particularly in enhancing subject leadership to further elevate teaching and learning outcomes.
