St Patrick’s Catholic Primary School in Corsham, Wiltshire, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on 29 and 30 November 2022. The school is deeply rooted in the values of the Catholic faith, which is reflected in its motto, Live, Love and Learn Like Jesus. This ethos fosters a supportive environment where pupils feel valued and listened to, contributing to their overall happiness and safety at school. The school community is characterized by high expectations for behavior, with pupils adhering to rules that promote good conduct. Disruptions during lessons are infrequent, allowing for a focused learning atmosphere. Breaktimes are described as enjoyable, and instances of bullying are rare, with effective measures in place to address any concerns swiftly.
The school emphasizes the importance of reading, implementing a well-structured phonics program that begins in the early years. Children engage with rhymes, songs, and stories to enhance their vocabulary and comprehension skills. Staff are adept at identifying pupils who may struggle with reading and provide additional support to ensure all students progress. The curriculum is designed to be engaging, with a variety of memorable experiences such as school trips and guest speakers that enrich the learning process. In subjects like geography, pupils demonstrate a solid understanding of local history and concepts such as fair trade.
In English and mathematics, teachers effectively assess pupils' knowledge and skills, ensuring that any gaps in learning are addressed promptly. The curriculum is well-planned across most subjects, although some foundation subjects require further development to ensure that pupils build on their prior knowledge effectively. Staff are committed to supporting all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that their individual needs are met through tailored learning plans.
Pupils exhibit positive behavior in lessons, actively listening and following instructions, which facilitates a conducive learning environment. They are taught to respect diverse cultures and faiths, and they learn about maintaining positive relationships and personal safety. However, there is a need for more opportunities for pupils to engage with different cultures to enhance their understanding of societal contributions.
The leadership team is praised for considering staff workload and maintaining a realistic vision for the school's future. Governors are actively involved in understanding the school's strengths and areas for improvement. Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff trained to recognize and report any concerns regarding pupil safety. The school collaborates with various agencies to provide necessary support for pupils and their families.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas identified for improvement. Leaders need to ensure that the curriculum in all subjects is clearly defined and that assessments are effectively used to evaluate pupil learning. This will help address any gaps in knowledge and ensure that all pupils can achieve their full potential. Overall, St Patrick’s Catholic Primary School provides a nurturing and effective educational environment, with a strong commitment to the personal and academic development of its pupils.
