Ofsted conducted a monitoring inspection of Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Primary School on 25 April 2024, following two successive judgments of requires improvement. The purpose of this inspection was to assess the progress made by the school since its last graded inspection, rather than to assign an overall effectiveness grade. The inspection involved discussions with the headteacher, senior leaders, governors, and local authority representatives, as well as classroom visits and reviews of pupils' work.
The inspection found that while the school has made progress, further work is needed for it to achieve a good rating. Changes in staffing have occurred since the previous inspection, with some staff leaving and new appointments being made, including a temporary deputy headteacher and a new SEND coordinator. The leadership and staffing structure is now more stable, which positions the school better to address previously identified weaknesses. The governing body has also strengthened with new members, enhancing its skills and knowledge.
Subject leadership is improving, with subject leaders receiving effective training that allows them to oversee their areas of responsibility more effectively. They are beginning to identify strengths and areas needing support within the curriculum. The school has focused on revitalizing its curriculum to ensure it is more relevant and appropriate for pupils. Teachers' understanding of the standards expected in various subjects has improved, leading to higher expectations for pupil achievement. Evidence of progress is seen in pupils' work, indicating a more secure understanding of the curriculum.
The updated curriculum is being implemented with increasing effectiveness, although some inconsistencies remain in delivery. Teachers are generally identifying activities that help pupils learn, but adaptations for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are not always as effective as they could be, impacting some pupils' learning. The school has revamped its assessment strategies, and teachers are now using these strategies more purposefully to identify gaps in pupils' knowledge. This is a positive development, although gaps from previous weaknesses in the curriculum still exist.
Reading has been prioritized, with pupils enjoying access to a new school library that offers high-quality texts. The phonics program has been strengthened, and staff have received updated training to improve its delivery. This has led to a more consistent approach to phonics instruction, although gaps in pupils' understanding remain due to past weaknesses. The school is beginning to address these gaps, with pupils showing improved knowledge of sounds.
Governors and the local authority have provided appropriate support to help the school improve the quality of education. The school and governors have effectively utilized this support to gain a better understanding of educational quality. Governors monitor improvement targets closely, allowing them to challenge the school when necessary.
In summary, Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Primary School has made notable progress since the last inspection, with improvements in leadership, curriculum, and assessment strategies. However, further work is required to ensure that all pupils, particularly those with SEND, receive the support they need to learn effectively. The school is on a positive trajectory, but continued focus on these areas will be essential for achieving a good rating in the future.
