Bulwell St Mary’s Primary and Nursery School, located in Nottinghamshire, has been recognized for its effective action in maintaining the standards established during its previous inspection. The headteacher, Julia Burge, leads the school, which is part of the Transform Trust, overseen by CEO Rebecca Meredith and a board of trustees chaired by Mike Butler. The school fosters a friendly and supportive environment where pupils enjoy attending and actively engage with the school's values, which are rooted in a Christian ethos. Pupils demonstrate a commitment to these values, particularly through the 'take care leaders' initiative, which encourages them to recognize and reward positive behavior among their peers.
The school maintains high expectations for both behavior and academic performance, resulting in calm and purposeful classrooms. Pupils express appreciation for their teachers, noting their kindness and support in learning new concepts. The school provides a nurturing atmosphere, ensuring that pupils who face challenges receive appropriate assistance. The playground serves as a vibrant space for social interaction, although some pupils occasionally require reminders to play sensibly.
Safety is a priority at Bulwell St Mary’s, with pupils feeling secure and confident in reporting any issues to adults. Parents and carers largely share this sentiment. The school offers a diverse range of experiences, including strong community ties and various extracurricular activities, such as dodgeball, which is currently popular among students.
The curriculum has been thoughtfully developed, particularly in reading and mathematics, contributing positively to pupils' learning outcomes. However, the writing curriculum is still in the early stages of implementation, requiring further development to ensure consistency in teaching practices. The school emphasizes vocabulary development, encouraging pupils to articulate their thoughts clearly and confidently.
Staff effectively help pupils connect prior knowledge to new learning, enhancing their understanding. The introduction of digital technology is in its infancy, but pupils have expressed enthusiasm for the immediate support it offers. The school has also made strides in understanding the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), although there are areas for improvement in providing adequate support for these pupils across the curriculum.
Reading is a significant focus, with a consistent approach to teaching phonics, leading to improved reading outcomes. Many pupils are now confident and fluent readers, expressing excitement about their reading materials. Attendance is prioritized, and the school has implemented measures that positively impact pupil attendance rates.
Personal development is well-promoted, with pupils gaining knowledge about diversity, discrimination, and healthy relationships. They engage in leadership roles, such as being prayer leaders during collective worship, and are prepared for life in modern Britain. The school’s leadership, including governors and trust members, actively supports and monitors progress, contributing to the overall improvement in educational standards.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. However, the school must continue to refine its writing curriculum and enhance support for pupils with SEND to ensure all students can thrive academically. Overall, Bulwell St Mary’s Primary and Nursery School demonstrates a commitment to providing a quality education while fostering a supportive and inclusive community for its pupils.
