St Anne's Catholic Primary School, located on North Street in Keighley, West Yorkshire, has recently undergone an inspection that has highlighted its significant progress and commitment to providing a high-quality education. The inspection, conducted on November 30 and December 1, 2022, resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of Good, a notable improvement from its previous grade of Requires Improvement.
The school is described as a happy, caring, and inclusive community, where pupils feel like they are part of one big family. This sense of belonging is fostered by the high standards set by leaders and staff regarding learning and behavior. The exemplary behavior of pupils, who are polite, courteous, and respectful towards one another, contributes to a positive school environment. The school's commitment to its Catholic values is evident in the respectful relationships among pupils, which help to mitigate bullying incidents.
Under the leadership of Executive Headteacher John Devlin and the Board of Trustees, St Anne's has made significant strides in improving the quality of education. Leaders have implemented a well-planned and ambitious curriculum that is designed to meet the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Subject leaders are passionate and determined, ensuring that the curriculum is sequenced effectively from Reception to Year 6.
Teachers utilize effective assessment strategies to check pupils' knowledge and address any gaps in learning. The focus on revisiting previous learning, particularly in subjects like mathematics and history, has proven beneficial, allowing pupils to build on their knowledge and skills.
The early years provision at St Anne's is commendable, with children receiving a strong foundation in phonics and communication skills. The curriculum is tailored to match children's interests, ensuring they are engaged and prepared for future learning. Reading is a top priority at the school, with a well-stocked library and quality books in classrooms. Pupils express enthusiasm for reading and demonstrate excellent writing skills, thanks in part to the effective reading curriculum that spans from Nursery to Year 6.
St Anne's places a strong emphasis on personal development, with a comprehensive personal, social, and health education (PSHE) curriculum. Pupils are taught how to live healthy and active lives, although there is room for improvement in the planning and sequencing of this curriculum to ensure consistent retention of knowledge. The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities that broaden pupils' horizons, including residential trips and overseas excursions. Parents and carers have expressed overwhelming positivity about the school, with many noting that their children are thriving in this supportive environment.
The safeguarding arrangements at St Anne's are robust, with leaders ensuring that all necessary checks are made on adults working with pupils. Staff receive regular training and updates, fostering a culture of vigilance and safety within the school.
While St Anne's has made significant progress, the inspection identified areas for further development. Leaders are encouraged to enhance the PSHE curriculum by clearly mapping out the essential knowledge pupils should learn. Additionally, assessment systems in foundation subjects need to be refined to provide a clearer picture of pupil progress.
St Anne's Catholic Primary School stands as a testament to the power of effective leadership, a supportive community, and a commitment to high educational standards. With its focus on personal development, strong academic performance, and a nurturing environment, the school is well-positioned to continue its journey of excellence in education. As it moves forward, the school's leadership is dedicated to addressing areas for improvement, ensuring that every pupil receives the best possible education.
