St Augustine’s Catholic Primary School, located in Costessey, Norwich, is a vibrant educational institution that caters to children aged 3 to 11. As part of the St John the Baptist Catholic Multi Academy Trust, the school operates under the leadership of Headteacher Rachel Swindell and is overseen by a board of trustees chaired by Ruth Hollis. The school has maintained a good rating since its last inspection in February 2012.
The most recent inspection took place on May 14 and 15, 2024. This ungraded inspection, conducted under section 8 of the Education Act 2005, confirmed that the school remains good overall. However, the evidence gathered suggests that if a graded inspection were to occur now, the rating might not be as high. The next inspection is expected to be a graded one.
At St Augustine’s, pupils are at the heart of the school's mission. They are described as polite, welcoming, and feeling safe within the school environment. The staff's understanding of individual pupil needs fosters a supportive atmosphere where students can thrive. Behaviour is generally good, reflecting the school’s values, which encourage responsibility and respect among students. The school has effectively addressed bullying, leading to a reduction in incidents.
Pupils actively contribute to the school community through various roles, such as chaplains and eco-warriors, demonstrating their commitment to the school’s ethos. The curriculum is designed to ensure that all pupils, including those who are disadvantaged or have special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), are supported to achieve their best.
The school has developed a carefully considered curriculum that meets the needs of its mixed-age classes. Subject leaders possess the necessary skills and knowledge to enhance the curriculum; however, there have been limited opportunities for them to monitor its implementation effectively. This inconsistency has led to some areas of learning not meeting the school’s high expectations.
While the school prioritizes reading, with structured phonics sessions that help pupils become confident readers by Year 1, there are areas where the curriculum delivery varies. The assessment systems in place are more developed in subjects like mathematics and phonics, allowing teachers to identify and address gaps in knowledge effectively. In contrast, other subjects lack precise assessment methods, hindering teachers' ability to support pupils adequately.
Pupils generally exhibit respectful and kind behaviour, supported by clear behaviour procedures established by the staff. The school is committed to providing enrichment opportunities, including theatre visits and residential trips, which enhance pupils’ learning experiences and aspirations. These activities help prepare students to become responsible, active citizens.
The school’s safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and their well-being is prioritized. The trust has also focused on staff well-being, leading to a positive work environment where the majority of staff feel happy and proud to be part of the school community.
Despite the positive aspects, the inspection highlighted areas for improvement. Subject leaders need to be empowered to monitor their subjects more effectively to ensure consistent curriculum delivery. Additionally, the assessment systems in some areas require further development to enable teachers to identify and address knowledge gaps more efficiently.
In conclusion, St Augustine’s Catholic Primary School continues to provide a nurturing and supportive environment for its pupils. While the school has maintained its good status, there are clear pathways for improvement that, if addressed, could enhance the educational experience for all students. The commitment to pupil well-being, a well-rounded curriculum, and a focus on community involvement are commendable aspects of this school, making it a valuable institution in the Costessey area.
