Our Lady and St Joseph Catholic Primary School, located in Poplar, London, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 28 and 29 September 2022. The school is known for its welcoming and inclusive environment, where pupils take pride in being part of the school community. Students express happiness and enjoyment in their learning experiences, collaborating effectively with one another. The leadership team implements well-planned strategies to support the broader development of pupils, with a strong emphasis on the arts, which play a central role in school life. Music assemblies and singing events are organized to foster reflection and community spirit among students.
The school prioritizes the development of pupils' communication skills, encouraging them to articulate their thoughts clearly and confidently. This is evident in classroom practices where pupils are expected to respond to questions using appropriate vocabulary and complete sentences. Such an approach not only enhances their verbal skills but also aids in their writing abilities. Overall, pupils achieve commendably and are well-prepared for their transition to secondary education. The leadership team maintains high expectations for all pupils, who demonstrate diligence and a desire to succeed. They exhibit mature behavior and understand the importance of kindness and respect, with a strong stance against bullying, which is addressed promptly by staff when it occurs.
The curriculum at Our Lady and St Joseph Catholic Primary School is designed to meet the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school ensures that the curriculum aligns with national standards, and the needs of pupils with SEND are effectively identified and supported. Leaders have carefully considered the knowledge they want pupils to acquire, particularly in the early years, and the curriculum is well-structured in most subjects, allowing for the reinforcement of essential knowledge and skills.
In mathematics, for instance, pupils frequently revisit prior learning, enabling them to grasp more complex concepts. However, the curriculum development is more advanced in certain subjects, such as mathematics and reading, compared to others like music, where the foundational knowledge required for progression is still being defined. Leaders are actively working on refining this aspect and have established plans to monitor the effectiveness of these changes.
Reading is a key focus from the outset of a child's education at the school. The early reading curriculum is ambitious and well-organized, ensuring that pupils acquire the phonics skills necessary for confident reading. Teachers are vigilant in identifying and assisting pupils who may struggle with reading, fostering a love for literature among students. By the end of Year 6, pupils have explored a diverse range of texts and are eager to discuss their reading experiences.
Staff training is prioritized to equip teachers with the necessary skills to deliver the curriculum effectively. Leaders are mindful of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on learning and ensure that any gaps in knowledge are addressed. However, there are instances where teachers may not fully utilize assessment information to build on prior learning, which can hinder deeper understanding.
The school environment is conducive to learning, with staff maintaining high behavioral expectations and addressing any off-task behavior swiftly. A variety of cultural experiences and extracurricular activities are offered, enriching pupils' development and allowing them to explore their interests. The well-being of both pupils and staff is a priority, with leaders providing support to manage workloads effectively.
Safeguarding measures are robust, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. Staff are trained to recognize and address safeguarding concerns, and pupils are educated about safety in their daily lives. Overall, Our Lady and St Joseph Catholic Primary School continues to provide a supportive and effective educational experience for its students.
