St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, located in Tilbury, Essex, underwent an inspection on 13 and 14 September 2023, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school is led by headteacher Victoria McBrown and is part of the Christus Catholic Trust, which includes several primary schools. The trust is overseen by a board of trustees, chaired by Bertrand Okechukwu Emecheta.
The school fosters a respectful and nurturing environment where pupils feel valued and welcomed. Students exhibit positive behavior, demonstrating respect for both adults and peers. They enjoy their school experience and are proud to be part of the community. From early years, pupils respond well to high expectations set by teachers, leading to a calm classroom atmosphere conducive to learning. Collaborative learning is encouraged, and pupils actively participate in lessons, showing enthusiasm and attentiveness. Their efforts and achievements are regularly celebrated, motivating them to succeed.
St Mary’s emphasizes the importance of community involvement, encouraging pupils to contribute through charitable events and fundraising activities. The curriculum is carefully designed to ensure that all pupils acquire essential knowledge across subjects from Nursery to Year 6. The school employs effective teaching strategies, breaking down information into manageable steps, which aids in pupil comprehension and retention. Tools such as knowledge passports and learning walls are utilized to reinforce learning.
Pupils develop a strong love for reading, engaging in discussions about the books they read and the social issues they present. The school provides robust support for early reading, with well-trained staff implementing a structured phonics program that begins in the second week of Reception. Reading materials are closely aligned with the phonics knowledge pupils acquire, fostering confidence and fluency in reading. Daily storytime sessions further enhance pupils' understanding and vocabulary.
In the early years, children participate in a variety of activities that prioritize communication and language development. The school identifies children needing additional support promptly and collaborates with professionals to ensure appropriate interventions are in place. Children learn essential life skills, such as hygiene practices, while engaging in imaginative play that promotes physical development.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive tailored support, allowing them to access learning alongside their peers. The school effectively identifies individual needs and adapts work to meet these requirements. Additionally, pupils are educated about diversity and fairness, engaging in discussions that promote understanding and acceptance of different perspectives.
While the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement. The range of extracurricular activities and clubs could be expanded to further enrich pupils' personal development. Leaders are encouraged to plan a broader array of opportunities that allow pupils to explore their interests and talents. Furthermore, in some curriculum areas, learning relies more on child-led activities rather than systematic teaching, which may lead to gaps in knowledge. A more structured approach to teaching across all subjects is recommended to ensure comprehensive learning.
Overall, St Mary’s Catholic Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education in a supportive environment. The leadership team works collaboratively to foster professional development and continuous improvement, ensuring that the needs of all pupils are met effectively. The school’s safeguarding arrangements are robust, contributing to a safe and nurturing atmosphere for all students.
