St Mary’s Catholic Primary School is recognized as a good school, providing a nurturing and supportive environment for its pupils. The school fosters a sense of community where students feel happy and safe. The relationships between staff and pupils are built on mutual respect, reflecting the school’s Catholic values. Pupils express confidence in the leadership's ability to address any issues, including bullying, which is not a concern for them. The school promotes a calm and orderly atmosphere conducive to learning, and pupils are encouraged to work hard and strive for their best.
The leadership team has high aspirations for student achievement, and this is evident from the early years, where children develop essential skills such as listening. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports and arts, which pupils appreciate. They also engage in community service, enhancing their sense of responsibility. The curriculum is broad and inclusive, ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, learn alongside their peers, preparing them well for future educational steps.
Teachers demonstrate a strong understanding of their subjects and effectively use assessments to monitor pupil progress. Lessons are well-structured, allowing for the reinforcement of prior knowledge, which aids retention. The school has prioritized reading, revamping its library and introducing a new reading scheme that begins in Nursery. Pupils have opportunities to engage with reading through mentoring programs and interactions with reading dogs, fostering a love for literature. However, the implementation of the new reading scheme is still in progress, and leaders recognize the need for further development to ensure all pupils become confident readers.
In the early years, resources are utilized effectively to support literacy and numeracy, with a focus on vocabulary development and positive behavior routines. The school emphasizes personal development, teaching pupils to be responsible citizens through charitable activities and community involvement. Parents appreciate the holistic approach to education, noting that their children are learning not only academically but also socially and spiritually.
Staff collaboration is strong, with leaders maintaining an open-door policy that supports staff well-being and workload management. The governing body is committed to the school’s continuous improvement, providing a balance of support and challenge to ensure high-quality education. Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to recognize and address potential risks, ensuring pupils' safety and well-being.
Despite the strengths, there are areas for improvement. The reading scheme requires further embedding to ensure all pupils develop into fluent readers promptly. Additionally, support for pupils with special educational needs needs to be more precise to maximize their learning potential. Leaders must ensure that staff are equipped to provide effective support tailored to individual needs.
Overall, St Mary’s Catholic Primary School is a good school that prioritizes the well-being and academic success of its pupils. The leadership team is dedicated to fostering a positive learning environment, and with continued focus on reading and support for all learners, the school is well-positioned for future success.
