Located in the picturesque village of East Hendred, Wantage, St Amand’s Catholic Primary School has recently been recognized for its outstanding educational practices and nurturing environment. The school, catering for children aged 5 to 11, has received a commendable inspection report from Ofsted, highlighting its overall effectiveness as Good with several outstanding features.
Pupils at St Amand’s express genuine joy in attending school, entering with excitement and leaving with smiles. The school fosters a familial atmosphere where staff, parents, and pupils work collaboratively to create a supportive community. Safety is a priority at St Amand’s, with pupils feeling secure and confident in their environment. Effective anti-bullying measures have been implemented, ensuring that incidents are rare. Older students are trained to support their peers, promoting a culture of health and well-being through organized activities during lunchtimes.
The quality of education at St Amand’s is rated as Good, with lessons designed to engage pupils in interesting and relevant topics. The curriculum is tailored to meet the needs of all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and disadvantaged pupils. Pupils are encouraged to take an active role in their learning, engaging in community service and fundraising for various causes. This involvement helps cultivate responsible citizens who understand the importance of making a positive impact in the world.
The behaviour and attitudes of pupils at St Amand’s are described as Outstanding. The school promotes a strong sense of responsibility among students, who are encouraged to develop healthy attitudes towards diversity and British values. The headteacher, Helen Ellery, along with committed governors and staff, is dedicated to ensuring that every child is prepared for a successful future. The leadership team actively supports staff well-being and workload, allowing educators to focus on delivering high-quality teaching without unnecessary burdens.
The early years provision at St Amand’s is also rated as Good. Children in the Reception Year are well cared for and supported by knowledgeable staff. The curriculum has been recently reviewed to enhance outdoor learning experiences, promoting personal development and social skills. Reading is prioritized from the moment children join the school, with staff providing effective phonics instruction. However, there is a recognition that some pupils may require additional support as they progress through their reading journey.
While St Amand’s excels in many areas, the school is committed to continuous improvement. Leaders are focused on refining the curriculum in foundation subjects to ensure clarity in learning objectives and progression. Additionally, enhancing opportunities for practicing mathematical concepts in early years is a key goal moving forward.
In conclusion, St Amand’s Catholic Primary School stands out as a nurturing and effective educational institution. With its strong leadership, dedicated staff, and a community-oriented approach, the school not only prepares pupils academically but also instills values of kindness, responsibility, and civic engagement. As it continues to build on its successes, St Amand’s remains a shining example of excellence in primary education.
