St George’s Catholic Voluntary Academy in Littleover, Derby, has received an outstanding rating in its recent inspection conducted on May 8 and 9, 2024. The school, which caters to pupils aged 5 to 11, is part of the St Ralph Sherwin Catholic Multi-Academy Trust. The headteacher, Rachael Snowdon-Poole, leads a dedicated team committed to fostering an environment where every pupil can thrive. The school has made significant strides since its previous inspection, where it was rated as good.
Pupils at St George’s are described as happy and flourishing, benefiting from a highly ambitious educational framework. The staff's dedication ensures that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, receive the support they need to succeed. The school emphasizes the development of essential character traits such as perseverance, respect, and acceptance, which are evident in the pupils' friendly and polite interactions with visitors.
Behaviour at the school is exemplary, with clear and consistent routines that maximize learning time. The school promotes a wealth of pupil leadership opportunities, allowing students to develop confidence and leadership skills through roles such as reading champions and members of the chaplaincy team. Parents have expressed high levels of satisfaction, noting the school's commitment to their children's learning and development.
The curriculum at St George’s is meticulously planned, allowing pupils to revisit important concepts and build on their knowledge. Language and communication are prioritized, with pupils learning subject-specific vocabulary to enhance their understanding. Enrichment activities, including visits to museums and virtual meetings with experts, further enhance the learning experience. The skilled staff receive high-quality training and utilize the latest research to improve their teaching practices, ensuring that lessons are engaging and effective.
Teachers adeptly adapt the curriculum for pupils with special educational needs, closely monitoring their progress to ensure they achieve their potential. The school fosters a love for reading, with a focus on diversity and inclusion in the texts shared with pupils. Early years provision is equally strong, with children quickly settling into a stimulating environment that encourages a passion for learning.
The school maintains a consistent approach to behaviour management, resulting in excellent pupil attitudes towards learning and high attendance rates. Leaders are proactive in identifying pupils who may need additional support to attend school regularly. The personal, social, and health education curriculum is exceptionally well planned, embedding themes of equality and diversity throughout. Pupils learn about and celebrate their differences, which contributes to a positive school culture.
Leadership at St George’s is characterized by a shared vision for success, with high-quality professional development playing a crucial role in the school's achievements. Staff feel well supported and valued, contributing to a positive working environment. The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, ensuring that pupils are safe and well cared for.
Overall, St George’s Catholic Voluntary Academy stands out as an exemplary institution, providing a nurturing and challenging environment where pupils can excel academically and personally. The commitment of the staff, the quality of the curriculum, and the positive relationships fostered within the school community all contribute to its outstanding status. The school is a model of excellence in education, demonstrating a clear dedication to the success and well-being of every pupil.
