Holy Family Catholic Primary School, located in Darlington, County Durham, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on October 18 and 19, 2023. Under the leadership of headteacher Jane Weatherall, the school is part of the Bishop Hogarth Catholic Education Trust, which provides additional support and oversight. The school community is characterized by a welcoming atmosphere where every individual is valued and respected. Positive relationships among pupils, parents, and staff contribute to a safe and happy environment for learning.
Pupils at Holy Family respond well to the high expectations set by the school. They demonstrate enthusiasm and attentiveness in lessons, actively participating in discussions and debates on topics that interest them. The behavior of the pupils is exemplary, with younger children in the early years learning essential social skills such as sharing and taking turns. Older pupils, particularly those in Year 6, take their responsibilities seriously, acting as buddies to Reception children and serving as positive role models.
The school encourages pupils to engage with the local community, fostering intergenerational relationships through initiatives like training as Dementia Friends and participating in the Dementia Café. This involvement helps pupils develop character and flourish in a supportive environment. The school places a strong emphasis on reading, with staff introducing children to rich language and stories from an early age. Phonics instruction is delivered by highly trained staff, ensuring that pupils receive the necessary support to build their reading confidence and fluency.
While the school excels in many areas, there are some challenges to address. Although pupils are exposed to a wide range of literature, some show reluctance to explore new authors and genres, preferring familiar texts. The school is actively working to promote a broader variety of reading materials. Additionally, while the curriculum has been revised to provide clear guidance for teachers, some pupils struggle to retain prior learning, particularly in subjects like mathematics and geography. Strategies are being developed to enhance knowledge retention and recall.
The school is committed to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they have access to the same curriculum as their peers. This inclusive approach allows all pupils to experience success in their learning. Personal development is a key focus, with pupils engaging in activities that promote spiritual growth and respect for diverse beliefs. Enrichment opportunities abound, allowing pupils to explore their talents in sports and music, and to participate in charitable initiatives.
The relationship between the school and the trust is mutually beneficial, with staff contributing to trust-wide policies and benefiting from training and development opportunities. The trust has also facilitated improvements to the school environment, enhancing the overall learning experience. Safeguarding measures are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils.
In summary, Holy Family Catholic Primary School continues to provide a good education, characterized by strong leadership, positive relationships, and a commitment to personal development. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in knowledge retention and broadening reading choices, the school is well-positioned to address these challenges and continue fostering a nurturing and ambitious learning environment for its pupils.
