Located in the heart of Quorn, Loughborough, St Bartholomew’s Church of England Primary School has recently reaffirmed its status as a good school following an inspection on May 4 and 5, 2023. The school, which caters to children aged 4 to 11, is known for its warm and welcoming environment, fostering a strong sense of community and belonging among its pupils.
Despite its larger-than-average size, St Bartholomew’s maintains a family feel, with strong ties to the local community. Pupils express happiness and engagement in their learning, feeling well cared for by the dedicated staff. The school’s leadership is characterized by high aspirations and expectations for all students, ensuring that the curriculum is ambitious and inclusive, particularly for those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
Pupils at St Bartholomew’s enjoy their lessons and are eager to excel. They take pride in their school, demonstrating respectful confidence and good manners. The school offers a wide range of trips and extracurricular activities that enhance the learning experience, with after-school clubs providing additional opportunities for pupils to take on responsibilities and develop new skills.
The school excels in providing a strong start for its youngest learners. The Reception Year learning environment is well-resourced, allowing children to explore various areas through play. The outdoor space encourages risk-taking and the development of gross motor skills, while strong relationships between staff and children create a nurturing atmosphere that prepares them for future educational stages.
Reading is a top priority at St Bartholomew’s, with leaders passionate about ensuring all pupils become confident and fluent readers. A positive reading culture is promoted across classrooms, with daily ‘reading for pleasure’ sessions and a diverse selection of books that expose pupils to different cultures and faiths. The phonics program is well-structured, ensuring that children receive the support they need to succeed in reading from an early age.
Mathematics lessons are designed to develop fluency, problem-solving, and reasoning skills. Teachers utilize a variety of resources and practical equipment to help pupils grasp new concepts, while regular opportunities for recapping prior learning reinforce knowledge retention.
The school’s wider curriculum is ambitious and well-sequenced, allowing pupils’ knowledge and skills to build progressively from the Reception Year through to Year 6. Leaders have implemented processes to check what pupils know and remember, although there is a need for consistent systems in place for assessing foundation subjects to identify and address any gaps in knowledge.
Pupils with SEND receive excellent support, with teachers adapting lesson plans to meet their needs. Collaboration with external agencies ensures that individual pupils receive the specialist support necessary for their success.
St Bartholomew’s prioritizes personal, social, and health education, preparing pupils for life in modern Britain. They have a secure understanding of British values and the importance of respecting diversity. The school promotes physical health through various sports opportunities, including competitive events for all pupils, regardless of ability. The safeguarding arrangements at St Bartholomew’s are robust, with a strong culture of safety. Staff are well-trained and proactive in addressing concerns, ensuring that pupils feel safe and know how to keep themselves safe, both in person and online.
St Bartholomew’s Church of England Primary School stands out as a model of excellence in education, combining a nurturing environment with high academic standards. With a commitment to continuous improvement and a focus on the well-being of its pupils, the school is well-positioned to maintain its good standing and continue to thrive in the years to come. For more information, visit their website at www.st-bartholomews.leics.sch.uk.
