St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in Guildford, Surrey, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 8 and 9, 2023. The school is characterized by a welcoming and inclusive environment where caring relationships are fostered among pupils and staff. The school’s vision, encapsulated in the phrase “The Way, The Truth and The Life,” is evident in its commitment to capturing hearts, inspiring minds, and awakening souls. Pupils express happiness and safety in their school environment, demonstrating respect for diversity and a strong sense of community. Instances of bullying are rare, and pupils trust staff to address any issues promptly. High standards of behavior are modeled by staff, and pupils are expected to uphold these standards, resulting in good behavior both in lessons and during playtime.
The leadership team at St Joseph’s has high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum is broad and ambitious, with a focus on ensuring that all pupils enjoy learning across various subjects. Teachers are skilled in adapting lessons to meet individual needs, and a wide range of extracurricular clubs, such as athletics and gardening, provide opportunities for pupils to develop new skills. Pupils also take on responsibilities, such as participating in the Spiritual Council, which enhances their sense of citizenship and community involvement.
Parents express strong support for the school, highlighting the collaborative relationship between home and school. The school’s leadership has designed a curriculum that outlines the knowledge and skills pupils are expected to learn. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that the curriculum is well sequenced across all subjects, including early years education. This lack of clarity in some subjects can lead to gaps in pupils’ understanding and confidence among teachers regarding the key knowledge to be taught.
Teachers maintain high expectations for learning, and children in the Nursery benefit from a rich language and number environment that sets a solid foundation for their education. As pupils progress through the school, they continue to develop positive attitudes toward learning. The reading curriculum is prioritized, with a structured approach to phonics and reading that fosters a love of literature from an early age. Staff are well-trained to support pupils who struggle with reading, ensuring that all pupils develop into confident and fluent readers.
Pupils exhibit good behavior in lessons and during play, with staff employing a consistent approach to managing behavior. A restorative approach is used to help pupils make positive choices, supported by effective pastoral care when needed. The school promotes pupils’ wider development through carefully planned enrichment opportunities and a variety of clubs. Pupils demonstrate a strong understanding of diversity and respect for different cultures and faiths, preparing them well for life in modern Britain.
The leadership team, including governors, is proactive and committed to the school’s vision. They prioritize staff well-being and professional development, which is reflected in the positive feedback from staff regarding the support they receive. The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with a strong culture of safety and regular training for staff. Leaders work closely with families and external agencies to ensure that pupils receive the necessary support. Overall, St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School continues to provide a good quality of education, with a strong emphasis on community, respect, and personal development.
