St Norbert’s Catholic Voluntary Academy, located in Crowle, Scunthorpe, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 29, 2024. The headteacher, Alex Dawson, leads the school, which is part of the Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Multi-Academy Trust. The trust is overseen by CEO James McGeachie and a board of trustees chaired by Nigel Stevenson. The school enjoys a strong reputation among parents and carers, who express high levels of satisfaction regarding the safety and respect their children receive. Pupil attendance rates exceed the national average, reflecting a positive learning environment.
The behavior of pupils is commendable, characterized by politeness and friendliness towards peers and adults alike. The school maintains a calm and orderly atmosphere, with pupils reporting that bullying is not an issue. They trust the staff to address any conflicts that may arise. A strong sense of equality is instilled in pupils, who understand the importance of respecting the rights of others. The school emphasizes high expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Teachers design engaging lessons that capture pupils' interest, leading to excellent contributions to their learning.
The curriculum at St Norbert’s is well-structured, promoting knowledge and skills across various subjects. The curriculum is carefully sequenced from early years to Year 6, ensuring that disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs follow the same curriculum as their peers. Teachers effectively build upon prior learning, particularly in mathematics, where they provide ample practice time before introducing more complex tasks. They address misconceptions promptly, ensuring that pupils develop a solid understanding of mathematical concepts.
In subjects like history, teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and effectively check pupils' understanding. However, there are areas where pupils do not consistently meet the ambitious learning goals set out in the curriculum. The school has identified key knowledge necessary for a deep understanding of historical topics, but further support is needed to ensure all pupils achieve these goals.
The school has invested in high-quality training for staff to enhance the teaching of phonics and reading. Pupils learn new sounds quickly, and reading tasks are designed to be engaging and appropriate for their abilities. Those who struggle with phonics receive expert support to help them keep pace with their peers. The school library has been upgraded, and pupils express enthusiasm for the diverse range of books available, which contributes to their love of reading.
Pupils actively participate in personal development programs, taking on roles such as school councillors and sports ambassadors. They demonstrate a good understanding of various world religions and are proud of their achievements in living out the school’s mission. The local governing body and trust are diligent in monitoring the school’s performance, and staff report high levels of job satisfaction, appreciating the consideration given to their workload.
The school’s safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in a few foundation subjects where the ambitious goals outlined in the curriculum are not consistently met. The school is encouraged to continue supporting staff to ensure that planning and delivery are consistent across all subjects, enabling pupils to deepen their understanding effectively. Overall, St Norbert’s Catholic Voluntary Academy continues to provide a positive educational experience for its pupils, fostering a strong sense of community and respect.
