St John Rigby Catholic Primary School in Bedford has recently undergone an inspection, with the overall effectiveness rated as good. The inspection took place on the 26th and 27th of September 2023, marking a significant improvement from the previous inspection, which had rated the school as requiring improvement. The headteacher, Michele McGettigan, leads the school, which is part of the Our Lady Immaculate Catholic Academies Trust. The trust is overseen by Tony Bishop and a board of trustees chaired by Christopher Donellan.
The school is characterized by a positive and nurturing environment where pupils enjoy strong relationships with their peers and staff. Parents appreciate the supportive atmosphere, which contributes to their children's well-being and development. Pupils are aware of and adhere to the school's rules, which emphasize readiness, respect, and safety. They learn the importance of kindness and are encouraged to communicate their concerns to trusted adults.
Pupils display a genuine enthusiasm for learning, particularly in reading, which is prioritized by the school. They express a love for reading, describing it as a means to explore new worlds. The school has implemented a structured reading curriculum that supports all pupils, including those who may struggle or have special educational needs. This approach has led to strong progress in reading across the school.
In terms of behavior, most pupils conduct themselves well during lessons and throughout the school day. While there are instances of low-level disruption, these are generally managed effectively. Pupils are respectful towards visitors and engage positively with them. The school offers a variety of extracurricular clubs, allowing pupils to explore new interests and develop their skills in areas such as sports, music, and art.
The curriculum is well-structured, with subject leaders carefully planning what pupils should learn each year. This ensures that pupils can build on their previous knowledge and skills. However, in a few subjects, there is a need for clearer guidance on the sequencing of learning to enhance understanding and progress. The early years provision is also strong, with children quickly adapting to school routines and engaging in meaningful play and learning experiences.
Support for pupils with special educational needs is a notable strength of the school. The curriculum is tailored to meet their specific needs, and staff regularly assess and adapt their approaches to ensure effectiveness. High expectations for behavior are set, fostering a respectful culture among pupils and staff. However, there are occasions when some teachers do not consistently reinforce these expectations, leading to minor disruptions in learning.
The school places a strong emphasis on safeguarding, with effective arrangements in place to protect pupils. Governance is robust, with the local academy council actively supporting and challenging the school to ensure continuous improvement. The trust directors are committed to the school's development and have a clear understanding of its needs.
In summary, St John Rigby Catholic Primary School has made significant strides in improving its educational provision. The positive relationships, strong reading curriculum, and effective support for pupils with special educational needs contribute to a good learning environment. While there are areas for further development, particularly in ensuring consistent behavior management and clarity in the curriculum for some subjects, the overall outlook for the school is promising. The commitment of the leadership team and the supportive community surrounding the school are key factors in its ongoing success.
