Cardinal Newman Catholic Primary School, located in Hersham, Surrey, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 19 and 20, 2024. Under the leadership of headteacher Catherine Burnham, the school is part of the Xavier Catholic Education Trust, which provides additional governance and support. The school fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment where pupils express enjoyment in their learning experiences. They appreciate the sense of community and the encouragement to strive for personal and collective achievements. The school sets high expectations for its students, who respond positively by engaging fully in their education and demonstrating exceptional behavior.
Pupils excel academically, particularly in English and mathematics, where their achievements are notably high. The school has implemented a well-structured curriculum that begins in Reception, ensuring a strong foundation for all students. The curriculum is ambitious and designed to cater to the needs of all pupils, allowing them to thrive in a broad range of subjects. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the wider curriculum subjects, where the school needs to enhance the clarity and sequencing of knowledge to ensure that pupils achieve similar high standards as they do in core subjects.
The school places a strong emphasis on respect, courtesy, and positive relationships among pupils and staff. This supportive atmosphere enables pupils to feel safe and valued, encouraging them to communicate any concerns they may have. The school promotes a culture of learning, belief, and friendship, where every pupil is encouraged to contribute to the community. They take on various responsibilities, such as serving as prayer or school councillors, which fosters a sense of belonging and purpose.
Extra-curricular activities play a significant role in the school experience, with a variety of clubs and events that allow pupils to showcase their talents. The school actively promotes a love of reading through initiatives like a monthly reading newsletter, which highlights book reviews and encourages pupils to explore high-quality literature. The phonics program is particularly effective, enabling pupils to develop strong reading skills from an early age.
The school is proactive in identifying and supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance to access the curriculum and achieve their potential. Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge, particularly in reading and mathematics, employing effective strategies to reinforce learning and address misconceptions promptly.
Pupils are taught the importance of respect for all individuals, regardless of their background, and they engage positively with the school community. The school prioritizes the inclusion of disadvantaged pupils in enrichment activities and provides financial support to eliminate barriers to participation. Attendance rates are high, and the school has robust systems in place to address any concerns swiftly.
Staff members enjoy working at the school, benefiting from a collaborative environment and support for their well-being. The leadership team values professional development and encourages staff to share expertise across the trust. The governing body provides effective oversight, ensuring the school maintains its good standing.
The safeguarding arrangements at Cardinal Newman Catholic Primary School are effective, contributing to a safe learning environment for all pupils. While the school has many strengths, it recognizes the need to refine its curriculum in certain foundation subjects to enhance pupil achievement further. Overall, Cardinal Newman Catholic Primary School continues to provide a quality education, fostering a nurturing and ambitious environment for its pupils.
