St Paul’s Church of England Voluntary Controlled Primary School in York has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 21 and 22, 2023. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils feel proud and enjoy learning alongside their peers. The students exhibit politeness, respect, and friendliness towards one another and the staff, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere that promotes a strong sense of belonging. The behavior of the pupils is commendable, with kindness being a core value. The school has a zero-tolerance policy towards bullying, and pupils trust that staff will support them if they have concerns.
Pupils demonstrate a solid understanding of modern British values, including equality and fairness. The leadership and teaching staff maintain high expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Lessons are designed to engage all pupils, making learning enjoyable. The senior leadership team is well-respected by parents and caregivers, who appreciate the opportunities to observe their children's academic and personal development. The school actively involves parents in various activities, reinforcing its role within the community.
The curriculum is well-structured, ensuring a coherent progression from Reception to Year 6. Leaders have developed a comprehensive curriculum that enhances pupils' knowledge across a wide range of subjects. Disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs follow the same curriculum as their peers, receiving effective support to facilitate their learning. The emphasis on reading is evident, with high-quality phonics instruction helping younger pupils to master letters and sounds quickly. The school library and classroom reading corners are well-stocked, encouraging a love for reading among students.
Mathematics instruction is also strong, with daily activities designed to reinforce number skills. Teachers provide clear explanations and monitor learning effectively. Pupils enjoy engaging activities that introduce various aspects of the wider curriculum, although there is room for improvement in assessing knowledge in some foundation subjects. This gap sometimes limits opportunities for pupils to extend their learning in these areas.
In the early years, children quickly adapt to the school environment due to the attentive care provided by staff. They engage in well-planned indoor and outdoor learning activities that support their development. The school promotes a culture of kindness and collaboration, resulting in positive behavior during lessons and social times. Older pupils take on responsibilities to support younger students, fostering a sense of community.
Despite the school's strengths, attendance remains a concern, with some pupils missing valuable learning opportunities. Leaders are committed to improving attendance rates and working closely with families to address this issue. The school prioritizes staff well-being, providing time for planning and professional development, which is appreciated by the staff.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with a strong culture of vigilance among staff. Training ensures that all staff are equipped to handle potential safeguarding issues, and there is a collaborative approach to ensuring the safety of all pupils. Overall, St Paul’s Church of England Voluntary Controlled Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience, with clear areas identified for further improvement, particularly in attendance and assessment practices in certain subjects.
