Located in the heart of Fareham, Hampshire, St. Anthony’s Catholic Primary School has been recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on October 19 and 20, 2021. The school, which caters to children aged 2 to 11, has demonstrated a commitment to high educational standards and the personal development of its pupils.
At St. Anthony’s, pupils thrive in an environment where high expectations are set by the staff. This culture of aspiration encourages students to take responsibility for their learning, fostering a sense of pride in their achievements. The school’s approach to education is holistic, emphasizing not only academic success but also the importance of personal growth and well-being.
Pupils express enjoyment in their lessons and appreciate the various rewards for their hard work, such as reading badges that they wear with pride. The school’s clear behavior expectations contribute to a respectful atmosphere, where incidents of poor behavior and bullying are rare. Older students take on leadership roles, acting as positive role models for their younger peers, which further enhances the school community.
St. Anthony’s offers a wide range of clubs and extracurricular opportunities that enrich the educational experience. Year 6 pupils engage in prefect roles, supporting younger students during playtime, while all pupils benefit from unique experiences such as visits to forest and farm schools. These activities not only provide practical learning opportunities but also promote well-being and social skills.
The school’s leadership has prioritized the teaching of reading and mathematics, ensuring that pupils develop essential skills from an early age. In the pre-school, children are equipped with listening and speaking skills that prepare them for phonics instruction in Reception. The structured approach to phonics and reading helps children build a solid foundation for literacy, with effective support provided for those who may struggle.
In mathematics, staff receive high-quality training to enhance their subject knowledge, resulting in effective teaching that builds on prior learning. Pupils are encouraged to develop speed and accuracy in their mathematical skills, which they apply to problem-solving tasks.
While St. Anthony’s excels in many areas, the inspection highlighted some aspects that require attention. There is variability in how subject leaders identify key content across the curriculum, which can affect the continuity of knowledge building for pupils. Leaders are encouraged to ensure that essential knowledge is clearly defined and monitored from the early years onward.
Additionally, the school has not fully implemented the national curriculum for physical education (PE), resulting in missed swimming lessons for pupils. Addressing these gaps will be crucial for providing a comprehensive educational experience.
The school’s safeguarding arrangements are robust, with staff receiving regular training to ensure they are equipped to identify and respond to concerns. Leaders maintain strong relationships with pupils and their families, enabling them to provide necessary support and intervention when needed.
St. Anthony’s Catholic Primary School stands out as a nurturing and effective educational institution. With a strong focus on academic achievement, personal development, and community involvement, the school continues to foster a positive learning environment for its pupils. As it addresses the areas for improvement identified in the inspection, St. Anthony’s is well-positioned to enhance its already commendable reputation in the community.
