Saint Martin’s Catholic Voluntary Academy in Stoke Golding, Nuneaton, received a good overall effectiveness rating during its inspection on June 25-26, 2019. The leadership team, led by the principal, demonstrates a strong commitment to the school and its community, with a clear understanding of its strengths and areas for improvement. The school has established a positive learning environment where pupils make good progress across the curriculum, particularly excelling in English and mathematics. Teaching quality is generally good, with some outstanding practices observed. Most teachers maintain high expectations for pupil achievement, although there are areas, such as modern foreign languages and humanities, where expectations have been lower for some students.
The leadership team has responded effectively to previous disappointing outcomes in certain subjects, implementing strategies that have positively impacted pupil progress and achievement. Staff training is prioritized, ensuring that teachers receive high-quality professional development, which contributes to the rapid improvement in teaching and learning. The school prioritizes pupil safety, with effective safeguarding measures in place, ensuring a secure environment for all students.
Governance is strong, with governors providing robust oversight and challenge to the school’s leadership. However, there are instances where monitoring and evaluation of improvement strategies could be sharper. The personal development of pupils is outstanding, supported by a strong pastoral care system that fosters an inclusive culture. Pupils exhibit exemplary behavior, showing respect and care for one another and adults, contributing to a positive school atmosphere. Attendance rates are consistently above average, reflecting pupils' pride in their school.
The school enjoys a strong reputation among parents and carers, leading to an increase in pupil enrollment. The curriculum is well-rounded, offering a balanced experience across academic and vocational subjects, and is designed to promote deep thinking. Leaders have developed a knowledge-rich curriculum that enhances pupils' understanding and application of their learning.
To further improve, the school aims to enhance teaching and learning to ensure that more pupils reach their full potential. This includes maintaining high expectations across all subjects and increasing progress rates, particularly in modern foreign languages and humanities. Leadership and management will also focus on sharpening the monitoring and evaluation of improvement strategies to ensure that all teaching aligns with the best practices already established in the school.
The inspection highlighted the need for continued efforts to ensure that all pupils achieve their potential, particularly in subjects where progress has been slower. The school is committed to addressing these challenges and is actively working to implement strategies that will lead to improved outcomes for all students. Overall, the school is well-positioned to build on its strengths and address areas for development, ensuring that it continues to provide a high-quality education for its pupils.
