St Mary's Catholic Primary School, located in Broadway, Worcestershire, has recently undergone an inspection by Ofsted, which took place on June 19 and 20, 2024. The school has been rated as good overall, with specific areas such as behaviour and attitudes receiving an outstanding rating. The quality of education, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good. This inspection marks the first time the school has been evaluated under section five of the Education Act 2005 since it became an academy in April 2017. Prior to this, the predecessor school was judged to be outstanding.
The executive headteacher, Jacqueline Smith, oversees St Mary's along with another school, and the institution is part of the Our Lady of the Magnificat multi-academy company. The governance structure includes a board of trustees led by Yvonne Brennan, with Tom Leverage serving as the chief executive officer. The school community is described as small and friendly, fostering a welcoming environment where pupils feel known and valued. New students report that this supportive atmosphere helps them settle in quickly.
Pupils at St Mary's demonstrate exemplary behaviour, adhering to high expectations set by the school. This positive conduct is evident from the early years, where children engage in routines that promote good learning behaviours. The school environment is calm and purposeful, allowing for uninterrupted learning. Relationships between pupils and staff are characterized by care and respect, contributing to a sense of safety among students.
The curriculum at St Mary's is ambitious and well-structured, with a strong emphasis on reading. Pupils are exposed to a diverse range of texts, which aids in vocabulary development and imagination. Early years children effectively learn new sounds, and those who struggle receive timely support to catch up. In mathematics, teachers are well-trained, presenting information clearly and adapting lessons to meet student needs. However, there are areas where teachers' pedagogical knowledge is less secure, leading to gaps in some pupils' understanding.
The school has made strides in identifying the needs of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), utilizing external advice effectively. Nonetheless, some individual support plans lack precision, which can hinder the progress of these pupils. The school is committed to improving these plans to ensure all students receive the necessary support.
Pupils engage in various extracurricular activities, contributing to the school community through roles such as house captains and eco councillors. They participate in community events, enhancing their understanding of British values and the importance of equality. Attendance rates are high, supported by effective systems for addressing concerns.
The leadership team, including local governors and trustees, shares the school's ambition and provides valuable support and challenge. Staff appreciate collaborative opportunities with other schools, which help manage workloads and enhance expertise. The safeguarding arrangements in place are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
In summary, St Mary's Catholic Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a quality education in a nurturing environment. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in pedagogical knowledge and support for SEND pupils, the overall effectiveness of the school is commendable. The positive relationships, high expectations, and community involvement contribute to a thriving educational experience for all students.
