Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School in Battersea, London, has been evaluated as a good school overall, with outstanding ratings in behavior and attitudes, as well as personal development. The inspection took place on June 20 and 21, 2023, and the school has maintained its good rating since the previous inspection in April 2018. The school is characterized by positive and supportive relationships that foster an inclusive environment, allowing pupils to feel safe and secure. The pupils demonstrate mature and respectful behavior, particularly when engaging with nature in the school garden.
The school promotes high expectations and consistent routines, contributing to a calm and orderly atmosphere conducive to learning. Pupils are eager to participate in their education, and the ambitious curriculum helps them build a solid foundation of knowledge across various subjects. The quality of work produced by the pupils is commendable, and they are well-prepared for their future educational endeavors. The school celebrates diversity through its curriculum, which includes engaging activities such as online conversations with notable figures and cultural events that highlight the community's rich diversity.
Extracurricular activities are abundant, with pupils participating in gardening, sports, music, and digital art. The school organizes enriching visits, such as a recent trip to Parliament, where pupils discussed important social issues like food poverty. The curriculum is well-structured, allowing pupils to build on their knowledge progressively. For instance, younger pupils learn about odd and even numbers, which lays the groundwork for more complex mathematical concepts in later years.
Reading development is a key focus, with a new phonics program implemented to ensure consistency and effectiveness in teaching. Staff are well-trained, and interventions are promptly put in place to address any gaps in pupils' phonics knowledge. This approach has resulted in pupils reading with fluency and enjoying literature, as evidenced by their enthusiasm for author visits.
While the school excels in many areas, there are some aspects that require improvement. In a few foundation subjects, teachers are not consistently checking pupils' understanding, which can lead to misconceptions going unaddressed. Leaders are encouraged to ensure that assessment practices are uniformly applied across all subjects to enhance pupils' learning experiences.
Pupils exhibit exemplary behavior, responding positively to the high expectations set by the school. They appreciate the recognition they receive for their efforts, such as being named 'pupil of the day' or earning house points. The school works closely with families to promote good attendance and punctuality.
The personal development of pupils is a significant strength, with numerous leadership opportunities available that foster character development and responsibility. Initiatives like 'faith friends' and eco ambassadors empower pupils to engage in charitable activities and environmental stewardship. The school places a strong emphasis on relationship and health education, equipping pupils with essential values and behavioral management skills.
Leaders have a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement. They have set appropriate priorities for development and have effectively addressed these throughout the year. Staff appreciate the support provided by leaders in managing workload and well-being.
The safeguarding arrangements at Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School are effective, with leaders ensuring that staff are well-trained and vigilant in identifying and addressing pupils' needs. The school promotes a culture of safety, including online safety education.
Overall, Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School is a good institution that provides a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, preparing them well for their future educational journeys while fostering their personal growth and development.
