Saint Patrick’s Catholic Voluntary Academy in Leicester has recently undergone an inspection, receiving an overall effectiveness rating of good. The inspection took place on the 2nd and 3rd of March 2023, marking the school’s first evaluation under the Education Act since its establishment. The school is characterized by a strong sense of community, with pupils, parents, and staff expressing pride in being part of a caring and inclusive environment. The school’s values of being ready, safe, and kind are actively embraced by the students, who demonstrate politeness and respect towards visitors and adhere to high behavioral expectations set by the leadership.
The leadership team at Saint Patrick’s has high aspirations for all pupils, fostering a culture where students feel safe and supported. Relationships between staff and pupils are described as warm, and instances of bullying are reported to be rare. The school provides effective support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that all students, including those who speak English as an additional language, receive the necessary assistance to thrive academically.
The curriculum is broad and balanced, with a strong emphasis on language development from the early years. Leaders have clearly outlined the essential knowledge that pupils should acquire throughout their education. However, there are some areas where the mapping of knowledge in certain subjects could be improved to ensure that pupils build on their learning effectively over time. While most lessons are engaging and appropriate, there are instances where assessment practices could be enhanced to better match learning to individual pupil needs.
Reading is a priority at the school, with staff well-trained in phonics instruction. Pupils are provided with ample opportunities to practice their reading skills, and they enjoy a diverse range of reading materials that reflect various cultures. This inclusive approach helps to foster a love of reading among students, ensuring that no pupil is left behind in their literacy development.
Personal development is a key focus, with strong pastoral support in place to promote pupils’ mental well-being. The school has a dedicated nurture team that assists students in managing their emotions and friendships. Pupils engage in activities that promote physical health and well-being, such as growing their own produce, and they learn about respect and healthy relationships through assemblies and lessons.
The early years provision is well-planned, although there are concerns regarding the quality of outdoor learning environments compared to indoor settings. Leaders are encouraged to enhance outdoor resources to better support children’s learning experiences. The school’s leadership, including trustees and governors, is committed to meeting the needs of all pupils, and staff report feeling well-supported in their roles.
Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to recognize signs of neglect and abuse. The school has robust systems for reporting and addressing safeguarding concerns, ensuring that families in need receive appropriate support. Overall, while the school demonstrates many strengths, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that the curriculum is clearly mapped out in all subjects and that assessment practices are consistently effective. The positive feedback from parents highlights the school’s strong reputation within the community, reflecting a shared commitment to providing a high-quality education for all pupils.
