St Mary Roman Catholic Primary School in Royston, Hertfordshire, has undergone an ungraded inspection on 26 and 27 March 2024, maintaining its overall judgment of outstanding. The headteacher, Julia Pearce, leads the school, which is part of The Diocese of Westminster Academy Trust. The inspection revealed that while the school remains outstanding, evidence suggests that a graded inspection might yield a lower grade if conducted now. The next inspection will be a graded one.
Pupils at St Mary’s are notably happy and thrive in a supportive environment that emphasizes the importance of doing well. The school effectively assists students with special educational needs and disabilities, helping them transition positively into the school setting. The ethos of caring for one another is evident, with older pupils taking responsibility for younger ones, fostering a sense of community and shared values.
The passion of the staff for learning inspires pupils, who display focus and determination in their studies. They articulate their learning goals enthusiastically and take pride in their achievements. The school offers numerous opportunities for pupils to explore their interests, including music education, which contributes to their well-rounded development.
In terms of curriculum, the school has made significant strides in redesigning its offerings over the past two years, with most subjects well-organized and clearly defined. Teachers utilize guidance from school leaders to create effective learning activities, particularly for pupils with special educational needs. However, some areas of the curriculum are still under development, and there is a need for all staff to consistently implement the ambitious curriculum aims.
Teachers regularly assess pupils' understanding and provide support when needed. In well-taught subjects, pupils have ample opportunities to recall important knowledge. However, there are areas where the key knowledge that pupils should retain is not clearly defined, leading to gaps in their learning. This inconsistency can hinder the depth of understanding that leaders aim for.
Reading instruction is a strong point for the school, with pupils developing a love for reading from an early age. The approach to teaching phonics is effective, and pupils are provided with a rich selection of texts that cater to their individual needs. Support for those struggling with reading is also well-implemented, ensuring that all pupils can access the curriculum.
The school sets high expectations for behavior, and pupils generally meet these standards, developing positive attitudes toward learning. Staff effectively support pupils facing social, emotional, and mental health challenges, employing strategies that help them regulate their behavior.
Despite improvements in attendance, the rates for disadvantaged pupils remain lower than those of their peers. The school is encouraged to develop strategies to enhance attendance among these students. Additionally, while the school promotes understanding of diverse lifestyles and beliefs, there is a need for continued focus on ensuring that all pupils feel included and respected.
Leaders have established strong relationships with parents and staff, who express high levels of satisfaction with the school's efforts. The trust and governors maintain an accurate understanding of the school's strengths and weaknesses, providing necessary support and challenge to facilitate ongoing improvement. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, St Mary Roman Catholic Primary School demonstrates a commitment to excellence in education, with areas identified for further development to enhance the learning experience for all students.
