St Mary’s Catholic Voluntary Academy in Glossop, Derbyshire, received a positive inspection report, achieving an overall effectiveness rating of good. The inspection took place on December 6 and 7, 2022, and it was the first routine inspection since the school joined the St Ralph Sherwin Catholic Multi-Academy Trust in September 2018. The school serves pupils aged 4 to 11 and has a total enrollment of 120 students.
Pupils at St Mary’s express happiness and a sense of safety within the school environment. They feel cared for by the staff and demonstrate positive attitudes towards learning. Respect for one another and the school’s religious ethos is evident among the students, who actively engage in the school’s mission of learning to love, believe, and achieve. Older pupils take on responsibilities, serving as role models for younger students, which fosters a sense of community and leadership.
The school environment is calm, and pupils exhibit good behavior. Leaders celebrate positive behavior through various awards, which pupils take pride in receiving. Instances of bullying are rare, and pupils report that any issues are promptly addressed by teachers. Parents and carers express high levels of satisfaction with the school, highlighting the supportive atmosphere and the positive impact on their children.
The school has made significant improvements in its curriculum since joining the trust. Leaders have focused on developing strong subject leaders and ensuring that the curriculum is well-planned and ambitious for all pupils. The curriculum is designed with foresight, particularly for Year 6 pupils, preparing them for the transition to secondary education. However, there is a need to enhance the curriculum in some foundation subjects to ensure that learning begins in the early years.
Teachers regularly assess pupils' understanding and use this information to address any gaps in learning. Most pupils are able to build on their knowledge over time and recall information effectively. The school has prioritized early reading, implementing a new phonics scheme and providing training for staff. This focus has resulted in most pupils becoming fluent and confident readers.
In the early years, children are aware of the expectations set by adults and follow class routines. The vibrant learning environment supports their development, particularly in spoken language skills. Leaders are committed to ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, receive appropriate support to succeed.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities that promote personal development, including sports and drama clubs. Leaders prioritize the mental health and well-being of pupils, and most students understand the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Pupils learn about different faiths and cultures, fostering respect and understanding for diversity.
While the school has made strides in reducing absenteeism, a small number of vulnerable pupils still experience regular absences. Leaders are focused on providing the necessary support to these pupils to improve their attendance. Staff report feeling supported by school leaders, who consider their well-being.
The safeguarding arrangements at St Mary’s are effective, with all staff receiving training to identify and report concerns. Leaders ensure that pupils understand potential risks and how to stay safe, particularly online. Overall, the school is dedicated to continuous improvement, with leaders actively seeking to enhance the educational experience for all pupils.
