St Edmund’s Catholic Primary School in Abingdon, Oxfordshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection from January 8 to 9, 2020. The leadership team is committed to fostering a love of learning among pupils, encouraging them to engage actively in their education and to contribute positively to their community. The staff maintain high expectations and are dedicated to ensuring that students achieve their potential, becoming happy and successful learners. Pupils are motivated to take on leadership roles, such as serving as ‘Hope not Hate’ ambassadors, and they actively participate in fundraising and charitable activities, demonstrating their commitment to helping others.
From the early years, children exhibit a passion for learning, benefiting from a well-structured curriculum that addresses their educational, social, and emotional needs. The school provides a high-quality education, with pupils thriving in a supportive environment. Students report feeling safe and secure, with no instances of bullying, and they express confidence in the staff's ability to resolve any issues that arise. The behavior of pupils is exemplary, both in classrooms and throughout the school.
The school’s leadership has a clear vision and empowers staff to deliver lessons in creative and engaging ways. This approach allows pupils to explore their learning and take responsibility for their educational journey. In the early years, children enjoy a variety of stimulating experiences that cater to their developmental needs, fostering curiosity and understanding of the world around them. Reading is emphasized as a fundamental aspect of the curriculum, with a strong focus on phonics to build confidence and fluency in literacy. Pupils receive ample support to enhance their reading skills, and there is a robust reading culture within the school, encouraging students to strive for recognition through initiatives like the ‘Star Reader’ badge.
Leaders are aware of the school’s strengths and areas for improvement, taking proactive steps to enhance the curriculum across all subjects. While some subjects, such as art and science, are being refined to ensure consistency in quality, the school collaborates with a nearby secondary school to enrich students' experiences in science. The school promotes an understanding of cultural diversity, teaching pupils to appreciate different beliefs and values while instilling a sense of global responsibility.
Pupils demonstrate a strong desire to learn, with no low-level disruption observed. Those with special educational needs receive timely and effective support from dedicated staff who understand their individual requirements. The school’s safeguarding measures are effective, with a culture of safety embedded throughout. Staff are well-trained to recognize and respond to potential risks, ensuring that pupils are protected from harm. Parents are kept informed about safeguarding practices and are encouraged to support their children in staying safe online.
To further improve, the school leaders recognize the need to prioritize ongoing professional development for teachers, ensuring that best practices are implemented across all areas of the curriculum. The commitment to refining the curriculum will help ensure that all subjects are taught to a high standard, enhancing the overall educational experience for pupils. The school continues to build on its successes, striving to maintain its good standing while seeking opportunities for growth and development.
