All Saints Catholic Primary School, located in Sowerby, Thirsk, North Yorkshire, has recently undergone an inspection on the 25th and 26th of October 2023. The school, which operates as a Catholic Voluntary Academy, has received an overall effectiveness rating of good across all assessed areas, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision.
The inspection highlighted that pupils thrive in a safe and nurturing environment where they feel welcomed and valued. The school is described as being built on love, fostering a strong sense of community among students and staff. High expectations for behavior are set by the staff, and pupils demonstrate a commendable level of respect for one another. Social interactions among students are positive, with older pupils often supporting younger ones, ensuring inclusivity during playtime. Engagement in lessons is high, with pupils showing enthusiasm for learning.
Leadership at the school has been particularly effective, guiding the institution through a period of significant change since its establishment as part of the Nicholas Postgate Catholic Multi-Academy Trust in June 2019. The trust has provided essential training and support, contributing to improvements in various aspects of the school. The curriculum is ambitious and thoughtfully designed, catering well to the needs of pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Early years education is robust, allowing children to start their educational journey on a strong footing.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, with a high participation rate among pupils, including those with special educational needs or from disadvantaged backgrounds. Students particularly enjoy engaging in sporting competitions and have opportunities to showcase their musical talents, such as singing at a local cathedral.
The curriculum is well-structured, breaking down knowledge into manageable steps, which aids in retention and understanding. Teachers regularly assess pupils' comprehension and address any misconceptions, ensuring effective learning. Pupils are taught to read quickly, with additional support provided when necessary. However, some inconsistencies in phonics instruction were noted, which could hinder the ability to identify pupils who may be struggling. Despite this, pupils have ample opportunities to practice reading, and the books provided align with their phonetic knowledge, fostering confidence in their reading abilities.
Staff members are adept at supporting pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they have access to the full curriculum and participate in school life. The school collaborates closely with external agencies to provide necessary support for these pupils. In the early years, a strong emphasis on vocabulary development is evident, with staff effectively planning activities that build on children's learning.
Pupils exhibit good behavior and resolve conflicts amicably, with adult support available when needed. The school has effective strategies in place to promote regular attendance, working closely with families to address any attendance issues. This proactive approach has proven successful.
Beyond the curriculum, the school provides pupils with broader experiences, such as learning about various professions through guest speakers. Opportunities for responsibility, such as lunchtime helpers and pupil ambassadors, are available, and pupils take pride in these roles, serving as positive role models.
The personal, social, and health education curriculum is well-structured, equipping pupils with a solid understanding of important topics. However, there is a noted gap in pupils' knowledge of other faiths and cultures, which the school is actively addressing by redesigning the curriculum to enhance retention of this knowledge.
Governance at the school is strong, with governors and trustees providing valuable support and challenge to school leaders. Staff morale is high, and there is a strong emphasis on professional development. Parental engagement is prioritized, with parents expressing positive feedback about the school.
The safeguarding arrangements in place are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. The inspection concluded with recommendations for the school to enhance its curriculum regarding world faiths and cultures to better prepare pupils for life in modern Britain. Overall, All Saints Catholic Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive community for its pupils.
