St Mary’s Roman Catholic Primary School in Lowestoft, Suffolk, has undergone a recent inspection, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The inspection took place on April 30 and May 1, 2024, and the school has shown significant improvement since its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. The head of school is Ewa Parker, and the executive headteacher is Helen Armstrong. The school is part of the St John The Baptist Catholic Multi Academy Trust, which provides additional oversight and support.
The school environment is characterized by a strong sense of care and support for pupils. Teachers are described as kind and attentive, ensuring that students feel safe and valued. High expectations for behavior are evident, with pupils demonstrating positive and respectful attitudes both in and out of lessons. The school promotes its ‘STAR’ values, which are reflected in the students' interactions and engagement during lessons. Pupils express enjoyment in their learning experiences, finding lessons interesting and challenging, which encourages them to concentrate and strive for their best.
The curriculum at St Mary’s is ambitious and well-structured, allowing for effective knowledge building over time. This has led to improved pupil achievement across various subjects. The school has successfully navigated changes in staffing and curriculum leadership, and leaders have taken decisive actions to enhance the quality of education. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the assessment of pupils' knowledge in certain subjects. Some checks on learning are not sufficiently precise, which can lead to gaps in understanding.
Reading instruction begins in the Reception class, with teachers well-trained in phonics to support early literacy development. Pupils are provided with books that align with their reading abilities, although there are instances where older pupils may not have access to appropriately challenging texts. The school is committed to providing additional support for those who need to catch up, ensuring that all pupils have the opportunity to succeed in reading.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are well-supported, with staff making necessary adaptations to the curriculum to meet their individual needs. This approach has resulted in these pupils successfully achieving their learning targets. The behavior of pupils is commendable, with younger children learning essential social skills and older pupils exhibiting politeness and courtesy.
Personal development is a strong focus at St Mary’s, with pupils learning about tolerance, respect, and diversity through various activities, including lessons, assemblies, and community events. The school encourages active citizenship, and pupils participate in initiatives that promote awareness of social issues, such as climate change. Leadership opportunities are available through roles in the school council and other initiatives, fostering teamwork and responsibility among students.
Governance at the school is effective, with trustees holding leaders accountable for school improvement. The trust provides valuable training and support for staff, enhancing their expertise and ensuring a high standard of education. Safeguarding measures are robust, creating a safe environment for all pupils.
While the school has made significant strides in many areas, it is essential to address the identified gaps in reading curriculum precision and assessment practices to ensure that all pupils can achieve their full potential. Overall, St Mary’s Roman Catholic Primary School is a nurturing and effective educational institution that prioritizes the well-being and development of its pupils.
