St Thomas More Catholic Primary School in Birmingham has recently undergone an inspection, with the evaluation highlighting its overall effectiveness as good. The school, which serves pupils aged four to eleven, is part of the Lumen Christi Catholic Multi Academy Company and is led by Principal Mark McLoughlin. The inspection took place on January 23 and 24, 2024, and the school has not been previously inspected under section five of the Education Act 2005.
The inspection report emphasizes the strong relationships fostered within the school community, where every pupil is regarded as special, unique, and valued. Parents and carers commend the staff for their care and support, which encourages pupils to strive for their best. The school maintains high expectations for behavior, and pupils demonstrate engagement in their learning, showing respect for one another and playing well together during social times.
The curriculum is described as ambitious and well-organized, allowing pupils to learn effectively. Teachers break down knowledge into manageable steps and check for understanding, addressing misconceptions promptly. While most subjects allow for the revisiting of important knowledge, there are a few areas where this practice could be improved to strengthen learning outcomes. The phonics program is delivered with expertise, and support is provided for pupils at risk of falling behind in reading. Despite some challenges reflected in the 2023 published outcomes, the school has taken swift action to enhance the reading curriculum, resulting in improved reading stamina and comprehension among pupils.
Mathematics instruction is also well-structured, enabling pupils to build their knowledge logically. Teachers effectively use resources to clarify new concepts and ensure opportunities for consolidation of learning. The needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are identified quickly, and lessons are adapted to ensure they can access the same curriculum as their peers, leading to successful learning experiences.
In the early years, children in the Reception class make a strong start, demonstrating impressive behavior management during independent activities. They engage in collaborative and creative tasks, such as building animal homes in the forest school. The school provides exceptional support for children with SEND, ensuring they receive nurturing assistance alongside opportunities to learn with their peers.
Pupils benefit from a wide range of extracurricular activities, including after-school clubs and leadership roles, which contribute to their personal development. They feel safe and confident in addressing any concerns, following the mantra of calling out issues to resolve them. The school prioritizes attendance and actively monitors patterns to improve overall rates, particularly for disadvantaged pupils.
Staff express overwhelming positivity about the school and the changes implemented since joining the trust. They feel their well-being is considered in decision-making processes. The governing body is effective in its duties, ensuring the school is well-managed.
The safeguarding arrangements are deemed effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. However, the report identifies areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that pupils have sufficient opportunities to revisit important knowledge across all subjects. Additionally, the school is in the early stages of implementing improvements to the reading curriculum, and it is essential to evaluate the effectiveness of these changes to ensure all pupils acquire the necessary reading skills for future educational success. Overall, St Thomas More Catholic Primary School is recognized for its commitment to providing a supportive and effective learning environment for its pupils.
