Holy Rood Catholic Primary School in Swindon, Wiltshire, has received a positive inspection report, reflecting significant improvements since its previous evaluation. The school is characterized by a warm and inclusive atmosphere where pupils feel proud to attend. The ethos of fairness, compassion, and loyalty is evident in the attitudes of the students, who express a strong sense of belonging and safety. High expectations for behavior are consistently upheld, leading to attentive and hardworking pupils who follow school rules diligently. The harmonious environment during break times and the absence of bullying concerns further contribute to a positive school culture.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular opportunities, including the Holy Rood 42 program, which encompasses sports, singing, and team activities. Pupils are encouraged to take on leadership roles, such as becoming librarians and mental health ambassadors, fostering a sense of responsibility and pride in their contributions to the school community.
Leaders at Holy Rood are ambitious for their pupils and have redesigned the curriculum since the last inspection. Subject leaders have carefully planned what pupils need to learn, ensuring a strong focus on vocabulary and language development. This approach has resulted in effective learning outcomes for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum is well-structured from early years to Year 6, although some foundation subjects require further clarity regarding early years learning to ensure continuity into key stage 1.
Reading is a priority at the school, with a well-planned phonics program that supports pupils' literacy development. Staff are skilled in teaching phonics and monitor pupils' progress closely, providing additional support when necessary. This emphasis on reading continues throughout the school, with older pupils expressing enthusiasm for the books they read.
Most subject leaders have received extensive training, enabling them to support teachers in delivering the curriculum effectively. Staff demonstrate secure subject knowledge and regularly check on pupils' understanding during lessons. However, in a few foundation subjects, assessment practices need improvement to ensure that pupils retain prior learning effectively.
The school has established systems to identify and support pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they access the full curriculum and achieve well. A well-thought-out personal development program educates pupils about diverse families, faiths, and cultures, promoting physical and mental well-being.
Children in early years settle quickly and learn essential social skills, supported by strong classroom routines. The school provides effective support for pupils with specific emotional and behavioral needs, contributing to a focused learning environment.
Governors are well-informed about the school's actions and quality of provision, providing both support and challenge to leaders. Staff express high levels of satisfaction with the support they receive from leadership, contributing to a positive working environment.
The safeguarding arrangements at Holy Rood are effective, with strong procedures in place to protect pupils from harm. Staff are vigilant and well-trained to recognize signs of abuse and neglect, ensuring that vulnerable pupils receive the necessary support.
In summary, Holy Rood Catholic Primary School has made commendable progress since its last inspection, demonstrating a commitment to high standards in education, behavior, and personal development. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in certain foundation subjects, the overall effectiveness of the school is rated as good, reflecting its dedication to fostering a safe and nurturing learning environment for all pupils.
