St Joseph’s Catholic Voluntary Academy in Matlock, Derbyshire, has been rated as good in all areas following its inspection in September 2019. The school fosters a warm and welcoming environment where staff encourage pupils to strive for excellence in both academic and personal development. Pupils perform well in core subjects such as English and mathematics, with ample support available for those who require additional help. The classrooms are bright and organized, complemented by attractive outdoor spaces. Students express enjoyment in their school experience, highlighting the kindness and support of their teachers. Behaviour is generally good, with minimal instances of bullying, and staff are proactive in addressing any issues that arise.
The school has made significant strides in improving the quality of education, particularly in English and mathematics, over the past year. Reading is prioritized across all year groups, with younger pupils participating in structured phonics sessions from the outset. Teachers are well-trained in early reading instruction, enabling most pupils to become confident readers quickly. In older classes, there is a strong emphasis on fostering a love of reading through a diverse selection of books.
Mathematics instruction is another strength of the school, with a clear curriculum framework guiding what is taught and when. Teachers utilize structured plans to ensure pupils develop a solid understanding of mathematical concepts, regularly assessing their knowledge to address any misunderstandings promptly. The introduction of whole-school topics this year aims to enhance the coherence of learning across subjects, with physical education, history, and science being taught effectively. Leaders are actively working to implement similar improvements in other subjects.
The school maintains high expectations for pupil behaviour, creating a calm and orderly atmosphere conducive to learning. Pupils engage well in lessons, demonstrating interest and enjoyment in their studies. Staff are committed to supporting the personal development and well-being of all students, with initiatives like the ‘sunshine group’ catering for those with specific needs. The school’s values, encapsulated in the six ‘Golden Skills,’ promote respect and tolerance, helping pupils appreciate diversity.
Support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is effective, with parents expressing satisfaction with the assistance their children receive. The leadership provided by the multi-academy trust and governors is strong, ensuring that statutory obligations are met and that the views of parents and staff are considered.
In the early years, the experienced leader provides guidance to staff on planning activities that cater to all children’s needs, focusing on reading, phonics, and mathematics to establish a solid foundation. However, some new staff require additional support to ensure that routines are quickly established, allowing children to fully benefit from the well-planned curriculum.
The school’s safeguarding arrangements are effective, with robust recruitment procedures and a strong safeguarding culture. Staff are trained to recognize and address concerns, and pupils receive regular instruction on safety, including online safety.
To further improve, the school needs to ensure that the curriculum is coherently planned and sequenced for all foundation subjects, with a timetable in place for completion by the end of the academic year. Additionally, new staff in the early years require further support to enhance their effectiveness in establishing routines and utilizing the curriculum effectively. Overall, St Joseph’s Catholic Voluntary Academy demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive environment for all pupils.
