St Teresa’s Catholic Primary School in Basildon has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 20 and 21 October 2021. The school is characterized by a strong sense of community and pride among its pupils, who feel accepted and valued. They exhibit politeness and respect towards one another, adhering to the established school rules. The core values of love, acceptance, respect, and reflection, which were developed from pupil suggestions, are evident in the school’s nurturing environment, allowing students to thrive.
Pupils express a sense of safety within the school, knowing that staff are attentive to their needs and concerns. The school has effectively educated students about bullying, ensuring that they understand what it is and feel confident that any incidents would be promptly addressed. The positive behavior of pupils is a reflection of the high expectations set by the staff, who encourage hard work and respect for others. This has fostered a culture where students are eager to learn and take responsibility for their actions.
The leadership team has designed a curriculum that caters to all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to succeed. Recent changes to the curriculum have enhanced the learning experience, particularly in reading and mathematics. For instance, pupils are introduced to phonics more quickly and practice these skills more frequently, which has led to improved reading fluency. In mathematics, students are given ample time to grasp specific concepts, building their confidence in applying what they have learned.
While the school excels in many areas, there are some subjects where the focus on specific skills has overshadowed the need for foundational knowledge. This has resulted in pupils lacking a deeper understanding of certain subjects. Leaders are encouraged to ensure that all subjects include essential content that supports the sequencing of the curriculum, allowing pupils to build secure knowledge before tackling new topics.
Reading is a priority at St Teresa’s, with a curriculum that features high-quality texts tailored to each year group. This approach aims to broaden pupils’ literary experiences and ensure that all students, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, become proficient readers. Regular assessments help teachers match reading materials to pupils’ abilities, fostering confidence and fluency.
The school plays a vital role in the local community, extending support beyond the classroom. Leaders actively engage with families, offering programs that promote fitness and fun, which are well-received by pupils. The cultural diversity within the school is celebrated, with families invited to share their traditions and experiences, enriching the educational environment.
Governance at St Teresa’s is robust, with governors well-informed about the school and its community. They hold school leaders accountable for educational outcomes and collaborate closely to support the school’s development plans. The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with designated leaders monitoring concerns and ensuring that staff are trained and informed about safeguarding protocols.
Overall, St Teresa’s Catholic Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and effective educational experience for its pupils. The school’s leadership is dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring that all students are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary for their future success. The positive atmosphere, strong community ties, and focus on academic achievement contribute to the school’s reputation as a good educational institution.
