St Winifred’s RC Primary School, located in Lee, London, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 15 and 16, 2024. The school fosters a positive and happy learning environment where pupils enjoy their time and make significant progress. The core values of the school emphasize being ready, respectful, and safe, which are reflected in the behavior and attitudes of the students. Leaders at the school maintain high expectations for all pupils, starting from the early years, and this is evident in the hard work and dedication shown by the students. They exhibit sensible behavior, politeness, and a strong sense of responsibility towards kindness and respect, which is supported by the school’s Catholic ethos. Pupils report that bullying is not tolerated, and any incidents are addressed swiftly by staff, ensuring a safe environment for all.
The school offers a broad curriculum that aligns with the national standards, catering for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum is well-structured, particularly in the early years, providing a solid foundation for future learning. Leaders prioritize reading from the outset, implementing a robust early reading curriculum that has proven effective, with a majority of pupils developing the necessary phonics skills to read confidently. The resources for reading are well-matched to the learning needs of the pupils, and teachers are adept at identifying and supporting those who may be falling behind.
In addition to academics, the school provides a wide range of enrichment opportunities, including various sports and arts programs. Many pupils benefit from individual music tuition, and they are well-prepared for their transition to secondary education, having developed a strong knowledge base in subjects like reading and mathematics by the end of Year 6. The curriculum design in most subjects is effective, allowing pupils to revisit and reinforce important knowledge, particularly in mathematics and phonics.
However, there are areas for improvement. Some subjects, such as history and science, are still in the process of developing a comprehensive curriculum that ensures pupils acquire the necessary knowledge over time. This inconsistency can lead to gaps in understanding, making it challenging for pupils to learn and articulate their knowledge effectively. Leaders are actively working on these areas and have plans to monitor the effectiveness of the changes being implemented.
Staff training is a priority, with leaders providing regular support to enhance teachers' subject knowledge and address any gaps in pupils' understanding. While the school maintains a calm and purposeful learning environment, there are instances where teachers may not fully utilize their knowledge of pupils' learning to build on previous lessons, which can hinder deeper understanding.
The school promotes positive relationships and has clear expectations regarding behavior, resulting in a conducive learning atmosphere. Attendance is prioritized, and pupils are punctual and engaged. The school also emphasizes wider development through leadership opportunities and community support initiatives, such as fundraising for local charities. After-school activities are diverse, allowing pupils to explore their interests and talents.
Overall, St Winifred’s RC Primary School continues to provide a good education, with effective safeguarding measures in place. The school is committed to ongoing improvement, particularly in refining its curriculum and ensuring that all pupils achieve their full potential.
