St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in Thame has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 19-20, 2019. The school provides a positive learning environment where pupils are engaged and enthusiastic about their education. They benefit from a diverse range of activities, including chess and outdoor learning, which enrich their educational experience. The school has established connections with Malawi, allowing students to gain insights into the lives of their peers in different parts of the world, enhancing their understanding of global issues.
Pupils at St Joseph’s are aware of the high expectations set by the staff regarding behavior and academic performance. The school fosters a culture of collaboration and support, where students work together to meet these expectations. The clear rules in place, such as safety protocols during playtime, contribute to a secure and happy atmosphere. Students express that instances of bullying are rare and are dealt with promptly when they occur.
Academic achievement is a strong point for the school, with pupils developing into articulate and confident learners. The leadership team, under the principal and her deputy, is committed to continuous improvement in teaching and learning. They have effectively developed the curriculum across various subjects, ensuring that pupils build their knowledge and skills progressively. High standards are maintained, and pupils demonstrate good behavior and cooperation in class.
In subjects like mathematics, teachers utilize well-structured plans and their understanding of student capabilities to provide appropriate challenges. This approach fosters confidence and enables pupils to tackle increasingly complex problems. Students enjoy mathematics and have a solid grasp of foundational concepts, such as times tables, which aids their problem-solving abilities.
However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in subjects like science, where the curriculum plans are not yet fully developed. While pupils can connect their previous learning to new concepts, their scientific understanding does not consistently deepen as they progress through the school. Additionally, there are instances where the learning needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are not adequately addressed, which can hinder their progress.
The school places significant emphasis on reading, with daily reading activities and a broad selection of texts to engage students. Teachers identify those who require additional support in developing their reading skills and provide targeted assistance to help them catch up. The phonics program is effectively implemented, ensuring that most pupils master essential reading skills early on.
St Joseph’s also offers a variety of extracurricular opportunities that enhance the overall educational experience. Pupils participate in activities such as cross-country running and community events, fostering a sense of belonging and engagement with the wider community. The school has effective safeguarding measures in place, ensuring the safety and well-being of all students. The headteacher prioritizes safeguarding, and staff are well-trained to recognize and respond to potential concerns.
To further improve, the school leadership should ensure that the curriculum is consistently well-developed across all subjects, allowing pupils to build on their existing knowledge. Additionally, teachers should tailor learning plans to meet the specific needs of pupils with special educational needs, ensuring that all students can achieve their full potential. Overall, St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, promoting both academic success and personal development.
