St Joachim’s Catholic Primary School, located in Custom House, London, has recently undergone its first inspection since becoming an academy. The inspection took place on 15 and 16 September 2021, and the school received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good, while personal development was rated as outstanding. The school has a strong Catholic ethos that guides its operations, fostering a respectful environment where pupils learn about various faiths and beliefs.
Pupils at St Joachim’s enjoy attending school and demonstrate a strong desire to learn. Staff maintain high expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Parents express positive views about the school, with many noting that their children are eager to attend. The curriculum is broad and well-planned, providing pupils with a range of clubs and trips that enhance their learning experiences. For instance, pupils have engaged in projects related to myths and legends, culminating in a themed medieval day that was well-received.
The school environment is safe, and pupils report that bullying is rare. They feel supported by staff in resolving conflicts and are generally well-behaved, although some distractions occur during lessons. Teachers are quick to address these issues, ensuring that learning remains a priority. The school has designed an ambitious curriculum that considers the knowledge pupils need to acquire in each subject. Leaders have also planned trips to introduce new experiences, such as a recent science camp for Year 6 pupils, which was met with enthusiasm.
Reading is a key focus at St Joachim’s, with a well-structured curriculum in place. Younger pupils are provided with books that match their phonics knowledge, allowing them to become fluent readers quickly. However, there are some challenges for older pupils in Year 3, as those who struggle with reading do not always have access to appropriately matched books, which can hinder their confidence. Staff encourage a love of reading, with older pupils assisting younger ones in the library and dedicated reading time in classrooms.
Other subjects, including mathematics, music, and French, are also well-organized, with a sensible sequence of learning that allows pupils to revisit and practice concepts. Staff are supported in improving their subject knowledge, which enhances their teaching effectiveness. However, some subject leaders are new to their roles and need to develop a deeper understanding of curriculum planning to ensure consistency in teaching quality.
Pupils with special educational needs are well-supported, with staff effectively breaking down activities to facilitate learning. The school emphasizes the importance of learning beyond the classroom, offering numerous enrichment activities and clubs that cater to various interests. Pupils are actively involved in selecting charities for fundraising, promoting a sense of community and social responsibility.
Behavior management systems are clear and consistently applied, helping pupils understand expectations. Leaders are mindful of staff well-being, ensuring that workloads are manageable and providing support for new staff members. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with leaders vigilant about pupil safety and well-being. Overall, St Joachim’s Catholic Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and enriching educational environment, with areas for improvement identified in reading resources and curriculum planning.
