St Edward’s Catholic Primary School in Kettering has been rated as good in its recent inspection, reflecting significant improvements since its previous inspection, which required improvement. The school is characterized by a positive atmosphere where pupils feel safe and valued, often describing the environment as familial. Staff members are dedicated and maintain high expectations for all students, fostering a culture of hard work and resilience. The school promotes well-being through its five core values, which pupils understand and embody in their daily activities.
Pupils demonstrate good behavior and respect for one another, with a clear understanding of equality and acceptance of diversity. Parents and carers express satisfaction with the school, noting the approachable nature of the staff and the supportive environment. However, some parents desire more information regarding their children's learning progress.
The curriculum at St Edward’s is ambitious and well-organized, allowing pupils to build their knowledge gradually. Leaders have made strides in creating a multicultural curriculum that reflects the diverse backgrounds of the students. Nonetheless, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that key knowledge is clearly defined across all subjects. Some pupils have shown confusion in specific topics, indicating a need for clearer guidance in their learning objectives.
Reading is prioritized within the school, with a consistent phonics teaching approach that enables pupils to develop their reading skills effectively. Staff regularly assess pupils' understanding and provide support when necessary. However, there are instances where opportunities for practice are insufficient, which could hinder the development of phonics skills.
In mathematics, the curriculum is structured to help pupils build their understanding and skills effectively. Pupils are encouraged to use mathematical vocabulary and engage in regular recaps of their knowledge. Teachers provide necessary support and resources to aid understanding, particularly in foundational concepts like addition and subtraction.
The early years provision is strong, with a focus on communication and language development. Children are engaged in activities that promote their understanding of numbers and literacy. The learning environment is stimulating, and staff interactions with children are positive and supportive. However, there is a lack of a consistent approach to assessing understanding across all subjects, which could be addressed to enhance overall learning outcomes.
Leaders are proactive in identifying and supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. While most staff provide effective support, there are occasions when this support does not meet the needs of all pupils adequately. Leaders are reviewing the strategies in place to ensure that all pupils receive the necessary assistance to thrive academically.
The school fosters a culture of respect and understanding of British values among pupils. They demonstrate knowledge of democracy, rights, and responsibilities, although there is room for improvement in their understanding of different faiths. Pupils express enthusiasm for extracurricular activities and are aware of the importance of healthy living.
Governance is strong, with leaders and trustees understanding the school's strengths and areas for development. They fulfill their responsibilities effectively and prioritize staff well-being, providing ongoing training and support. The safeguarding measures in place are robust, ensuring that pupils are well-protected and supported in their learning environment. Overall, St Edward’s Catholic Primary School is on a positive trajectory, with a commitment to continuous improvement and a focus on providing a high-quality education for all its pupils.
