St Joseph’s Roman Catholic Primary School in Sudbury, Suffolk, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 21 and 22 February 2023. The school provides a positive environment where pupils feel happy and safe. They understand the concept of bullying and trust the staff to address any incidents effectively. In the classroom, most pupils are engaged and eager to learn, demonstrating respect for their teachers and peers. The school promotes values of responsibility, readiness, and respect, which pupils embody through various roles such as school council members and house captains. These roles help build their confidence and encourage community involvement, such as fundraising for charities and performing at local care homes.
The curriculum is well-structured, clearly outlining what pupils need to learn, which aids teachers in their planning. Regular assessments allow teachers to gauge pupils' understanding and address any misconceptions promptly. However, there are some subjects where the key knowledge has not yet been fully defined, leading to occasional gaps in lesson planning. This can hinder pupils' ability to connect their prior knowledge with new learning, impacting their overall understanding.
The school is attentive to the needs of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, ensuring that their requirements are identified and met through tailored curriculum adaptations. The effective use of additional support staff helps these pupils access the same learning opportunities as their peers, allowing them to achieve well.
A new phonics program has been introduced to enhance reading and spelling skills across the school. While most teachers deliver this program effectively, some inconsistencies remain, resulting in certain pupils not having enough practice to develop their reading fluency. In the early years, children engage in well-planned activities that foster their learning and social skills, preparing them for future academic challenges.
Pupils exhibit positive attitudes towards learning, maintaining focus and working collaboratively during lessons, which maximizes learning time. The school prioritizes personal development through a well-planned program that integrates assemblies with lessons on different faiths and cultures, as well as practical workshops on financial literacy. The strong connection with the local church further enriches the pupils' educational experience.
Staff members express pride in their work at the school, appreciating the consideration given to their workload by the leadership team. Leaders and governors possess a thorough understanding of the school’s strengths and areas for improvement, with appropriate challenges in place to support ongoing development. The collaborative efforts within the school federation enhance curriculum leadership and staff development.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with regular training ensuring that staff are aware of potential risks to pupils. Concerns are communicated promptly, and necessary support is provided through both internal and external resources. Pre-appointment checks for staff are conducted rigorously, ensuring a safe environment for all children.
To further improve, the school must ensure consistent implementation of the phonics program across all classes, providing all pupils with ample opportunities to reinforce their learning. Additionally, leaders need to identify key concepts and knowledge in all subjects to enhance lesson planning and facilitate connections between different areas of learning. By addressing these areas, St Joseph’s can continue to build on its successes and provide an excellent educational experience for its pupils.
