St John Fisher Catholic Primary School in Coventry has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on September 12 and 13, 2023. The school is led by executive principal Dee Williams and is part of the Romero Catholic Academy, which provides additional oversight through a board of trustees chaired by Brendan Fawcett. The school fosters a welcoming environment where pupils feel safe and valued. They demonstrate care for one another, listen to their peers, and support each other with any concerns. The atmosphere is characterized by respect and tolerance, with pupils showing an understanding of various cultures and religions, which helps new students integrate smoothly.
The staff at St John Fisher model expected behaviors, and pupils respond positively, exhibiting good manners and politeness. In lessons, students display a strong attitude towards learning, which is encouraged by the staff's vigilance regarding their welfare. The school prioritizes mental health, teaching pupils the importance of maintaining both mental and physical well-being. The curriculum is ambitious, designed to equip pupils with the necessary skills and knowledge for their future education. Pupils engage with challenging material and benefit from a variety of educational experiences, including visits to local attractions.
The school excels in creating an inclusive environment where all pupils are welcomed. The Catholic ethos is evident, and pupils learn about British values through the school's principles. They are encouraged to concentrate and persevere in their studies, trusting that staff will listen to their thoughts and concerns. Collaborative learning is promoted, allowing pupils to reflect on their understanding of different cultures and the significance of individuality.
St John Fisher collaborates with the multi-academy company to carefully plan its curriculum. The directors and local governing board provide effective support and challenge, continuously seeking improvement. The school ensures that subject knowledge is taught in a logical sequence, benefiting all pupils, including those with special educational needs. Teachers demonstrate secure subject knowledge, which enhances the delivery of the curriculum. For instance, in early years, staff effectively prepare pupils for future learning by building on their current knowledge.
Pupils receive strong support in developing their reading skills, with staff ensuring that every child reads fluently. Phonics instruction is well-implemented, and younger pupils are encouraged to select books that reinforce their learning. Staff are quick to identify those needing additional help, adjusting their teaching methods accordingly. The curriculum promotes knowledge across various subjects, particularly in mathematics, where pupils practice skills that enable them to apply their learning confidently.
The school employs various strategies to assess the effectiveness of its teaching across subjects, although there is room for improvement in consistency. Pupils participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports and creative pursuits, and they take on leadership roles, contributing to the school community. Staff feel supported in managing their workload and express a strong sense of belonging within the school.
The safeguarding arrangements at St John Fisher are effective, ensuring that pupils' safety and well-being are prioritized. However, the school recognizes the need to enhance its understanding of specific strengths and areas for improvement across all subjects. By extending its monitoring strategies, the school aims to ensure that teachers' subject knowledge is consistently strong across the curriculum. Overall, St John Fisher Catholic Primary School continues to provide a good educational experience for its pupils, fostering a supportive and enriching environment.
