St Gregory’s Catholic Primary School in Northampton has been evaluated as a good school following its inspection on 27 and 28 September 2022. The school is characterized by a positive and cohesive environment where pupils interact well with one another. The ethos of being ready, respectful, and safe is well understood by the students, reflecting the high expectations set by the school leaders. Inclusivity is a key aspect of the school culture, with pupils recognizing the value of diversity and uniqueness among their peers.
Behaviour at the school is commendable, with a recently implemented behaviour policy that is effectively communicated and understood by the students. Pupils appreciate the rewards and praise associated with good behaviour and are aware of the consequences of poor behaviour. The school provides adequate support for those who require assistance in meeting behavioural expectations, fostering a supportive atmosphere where students help each other.
The curriculum at St Gregory’s is generally well-structured and sequenced, ensuring that pupils know what they are expected to learn at each stage. However, some subjects are still in the development phase, and leaders have not yet clearly defined the essential knowledge that pupils should retain. Reading instruction is a strong point, with a well-organized phonics program that has been consistently implemented. While most pupils enjoy reading and are making good progress, a small number are assigned books that do not align with their phonics knowledge, hindering their fluency.
The early years provision is engaging, with children eager to participate in various activities. The curriculum is thoughtfully designed and sequenced, with staff regularly monitoring children’s progress and providing additional support when necessary. The behaviour policy in the early years is clear and consistently applied, although monitoring of its effectiveness is still developing.
The school’s personal, social, and health education curriculum is comprehensive, exposing pupils to diverse cultures and beliefs. Various extracurricular activities, including sports and arts, are accessible to all students, promoting a well-rounded educational experience. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive tailored support, with clear and achievable targets set for their learning.
Leadership at St Gregory’s has seen significant improvements since the last inspection, with staff expressing pride in their work and appreciation for the consideration shown towards their well-being. Governance is effective, with board members demonstrating a solid understanding of the school’s needs and providing appropriate support and challenge.
Safeguarding measures are robust, ensuring that pupils are well-informed about safety in various contexts. The school maintains detailed safeguarding records and conducts thorough checks to ensure that all staff are suitable to work with children.
To enhance its effectiveness, the school needs to ensure that the curriculum is fully developed across all subjects, clearly outlining the key knowledge that pupils should acquire. Additionally, it is essential to address the issue of reading materials for some pupils to ensure they are appropriately matched to their phonics knowledge. Finally, ongoing monitoring of behaviour policy breaches is necessary to identify trends and patterns that may emerge over time. Overall, St Gregory’s Catholic Primary School provides a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, with a strong foundation for continued improvement.
