St Edmund Campion Catholic Primary School in West Bridgford, Nottinghamshire, has received a positive inspection report, highlighting its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on 18 and 19 July 2023, and the school has shown significant improvement since its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. The quality of education is also rated as good, with outstanding marks for behaviour and attitudes, as well as personal development. Leadership and management, along with early years provision, are also deemed good.
Pupils at St Edmund Campion School thrive in an environment that prioritizes their well-being and personal development. The staff are dedicated to understanding each child's individual needs and interests, ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, are fully engaged in school life. The school fosters exemplary behaviour, with classrooms characterized by a purposeful atmosphere where pupils interact positively with one another and with staff. Older students take on mentorship roles, helping younger peers learn through play.
The school celebrates diversity and teaches pupils to appreciate both the differences and commonalities among people. This inclusive environment encourages pupils to express their concerns and learn from their mistakes in a safe space. Parents and carers express overwhelming satisfaction with the school, noting the outstanding education and pastoral care provided. They appreciate the involvement in their children's learning and the development of their children into polite, well-educated, and socially aware individuals.
The curriculum at St Edmund Campion is ambitious and well-structured, particularly in reading, writing, and mathematics, where pupils build on prior knowledge effectively. Teachers connect new concepts with previously learned material, enabling pupils to achieve well, including those who speak English as an additional language. Subject leadership is strong, with leaders having a clear understanding of the strengths and areas for improvement within the curriculum. However, some subjects require further development to ensure that pupils can make meaningful connections across the curriculum.
Staff development is a priority for school leaders, who utilize research-informed approaches to enhance teaching practices. The positive attitudes towards learning are evident, and expectations for behaviour are clearly communicated. A strong emphasis on literature is central to the school's culture, with a commitment to ensuring that all pupils, including those with SEND, learn to read proficiently. Early reading instruction is effective, with lessons designed to address misconceptions and match reading materials to pupils' learning stages.
Pupils are encouraged to engage in writing through initiatives like the 'letter writer's backpack,' which promotes high-quality writing and self-expression. In the early years, children develop positive attitudes towards learning, responding well to high expectations and demonstrating independence in their learning activities.
The school provides a rich array of experiences, encouraging pupils to take on leadership roles and participate in community events. Trust leaders and governors work collaboratively to drive school improvement, ensuring that staff feel supported and valued. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with comprehensive training for staff and a strong focus on pupil safety and well-being.
While the school has many strengths, it is essential for leaders to continue refining the curriculum to ensure that all subjects facilitate meaningful knowledge development. This ongoing work will help pupils make connections across their learning experiences and enhance their overall educational journey.
