Saint Joseph’s Catholic Primary Voluntary Academy in Cleethorpes, Lincolnshire, was inspected on October 4, 2023. The overall judgement remains good, but the evidence suggests that a graded inspection might yield a lower rating. The headteacher, Francis McDonnell, leads the school, which is part of the Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Multi-Academy Trust, overseen by CEO James McGeachie and trustee chair Nigel Stevenson.
Pupils express enjoyment in attending the school, describing it as a happy environment conducive to learning and friendship. They feel safe and are encouraged to communicate any concerns to the adults in the school. The school promotes values of respect and kindness among pupils and staff. While the school aspires for all pupils to achieve well, these ambitions are not fully realized. New leadership has accurately assessed the school’s strengths and areas needing improvement, initiating changes to enhance the curriculum and educational quality.
Pupil behavior is generally calm and orderly, with politeness and good manners observed throughout the school. Staff are attentive to pupils' concerns, addressing rare instances of bullying promptly. The school is raising expectations for learning and behavior, implementing new routines that have been positively received by parents, carers, and staff.
However, the school faces challenges in consistently delivering its phonics program, which affects early readers who do not receive the necessary quality of teaching. Leaders are beginning to improve phonics instruction, with updated training for staff and a curriculum that starts in Reception. The school is fostering a love of reading among younger children, which is beneficial for their speaking and listening skills.
The curriculum is evolving, but much of it is not yet fully implemented, leading to gaps in knowledge retention in subjects like geography and history. In physical education, a clear sequence of knowledge has been established, aiding teachers in developing their subject expertise. The school is also enhancing its systems for supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, although clarity on progression steps for these pupils remains an area for improvement.
Pupils have opportunities to engage in leadership roles, such as worship leaders and Mini Vinnies, promoting charitable activities. The school encourages understanding of the wider world through educational visits and participation in sporting events. Personal, social, and health education covers important issues, but pupils lack a deep understanding of fundamental British values and protected characteristics, which is essential for their preparation for life in modern Britain.
Leaders, including those from the trust, have a clear understanding of the school’s strengths and weaknesses and are making strides toward improvement. Staff support the leadership team’s vision, feeling valued and respected. Parents have expressed positive feedback regarding the changes being implemented and appreciate the leaders' visibility and responsiveness to concerns.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. To improve, the school must ensure consistent implementation of the phonics program, clarify targets for pupils with special educational needs, refine the foundation subjects curriculum, and deepen pupils' understanding of British values and protected characteristics. These steps are crucial for enhancing the educational experience and outcomes for all pupils at Saint Joseph’s Catholic Primary Academy.
