St Patrick's Catholic Primary and Nursery School in Nottingham has been recognized for its overall effectiveness, receiving a Good rating across various aspects including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school is well-regarded by pupils, who express pride in their institution, noting that staff are attentive and understanding, which fosters a safe learning environment. Parents and carers appreciate the nurturing atmosphere and the celebration of diversity alongside strong Catholic values.
Pupils demonstrate good behavior both in lessons and during informal interactions, responding positively to the school's behavior management system. They understand the consequences of unacceptable behavior and value the concept of a fresh start each day. The school effectively addresses bullying, with pupils confident that staff will manage any issues that arise, contributing to a trusting and supportive atmosphere.
The curriculum has been thoroughly revised since the last inspection, ensuring that it outlines essential knowledge and skills for pupils from early years to Year 6. Staff encourage pupils to apply prior knowledge to new challenges, enhancing their retention and understanding over time. However, there has been significant staff turnover, leading to some curriculum leaders being new to their roles. These leaders are still developing a comprehensive understanding of their subjects and have yet to fully assess the impact of their curriculum on pupil learning. Plans are in place to support these new leaders throughout the year.
The mathematics curriculum is particularly strong, with a consistent approach that promotes high-quality work and the development of problem-solving skills. Reading is prioritized, with staff fostering a love for literature through well-selected books and a vibrant school library. Daily phonics sessions in early years and Years 1 and 2 help establish a solid foundation for reading, although some Year 1 pupils are still working towards fluency due to disruptions in learning caused by the pandemic.
The provision for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is effectively managed, with staff providing tailored support in lessons. In early years, children quickly adapt to routines, with a strong emphasis on language development in a well-resourced environment. The school’s values, encapsulated in the motto love first, live the gospels, learn for life, are actively promoted by all staff, contributing to pupils' personal development and their understanding of diverse faiths and cultures.
Governance is effective, with the board of trustees providing support and challenge that positively influences curriculum development and staff training. Leaders are mindful of staff workload and well-being, particularly in light of the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The safeguarding arrangements are robust, with a strong culture of safety established within the school. Leaders prioritize staff training and communication, ensuring that concerns are addressed promptly.
While the school has made significant strides, it is essential for curriculum leaders to develop a clearer overview of their subjects to monitor the effectiveness of the curriculum delivery. This will enable them to ensure that pupils are consistently able to know and remember more as they progress through their education. Overall, St Patrick's Catholic Primary and Nursery School is a well-regarded institution that provides a supportive and effective learning environment for its pupils.
