St Peter’s Catholic Primary School, located in Billericay, Essex, has recently undergone an inspection and received an outstanding rating across all areas of evaluation. The school, which converted to an academy in April 2020, is part of the Christus Catholic Trust and has a strong leadership team led by headteacher Katherine Parker. The trust is overseen by CEO Joanna Seymour and a board of trustees chaired by Bertrand Okechukwu Emecheta. The predecessor school was also rated outstanding during its last inspection in July 2009.
The school is characterized by its inclusive environment where pupils thrive academically and socially. The quality of education provided is exceptional, with pupils achieving high standards. Relationships between staff and students are warm and respectful, fostering a safe and happy atmosphere where pupils feel confident to seek help when needed. The school sets high expectations for behavior, and pupils consistently meet these standards, demonstrating thoughtfulness and kindness towards one another.
From the early years, children are taught the importance of resilience and curiosity, which helps them embrace the learning challenges presented to them. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including clubs, competitions, and trips, which enhance pupils' experiences and personal development. Pupils learn to care for themselves through well-being initiatives and take on responsibilities through roles such as librarians and sports captains. They are encouraged to voice their opinions and contribute to making the school a better place, including efforts towards sustainability.
The curriculum at St Peter’s is of high quality, carefully designed to ensure that pupils build knowledge progressively. Staff possess strong subject knowledge and adapt learning to meet the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The phonics program is well-embedded, enabling pupils to become confident readers early on. The school has cultivated a love for reading, with pupils actively engaging in discussions about their favorite books.
Pupils are actively involved in lessons, demonstrating enthusiasm and a willingness to share their learning. The school has established routines that promote positive behavior, and staff maintain high expectations, addressing any issues swiftly to ensure a focus on learning. The personal development program is integrated throughout the curriculum, allowing pupils to connect their learning with real-world experiences, such as exploring different cultures through food technology.
Staff at St Peter’s feel well-supported and receive high-quality training, which contributes to their effectiveness in teaching. The school prioritizes staff well-being and workload management, fostering a positive working environment. Governors are aware of the school’s strengths and areas for improvement, working collaboratively with the trust to maintain high standards and exceptional inclusion.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and their welfare is prioritized. Overall, St Peter’s Catholic Primary School exemplifies excellence in education, providing a nurturing and challenging environment where pupils can flourish academically and personally. The school’s commitment to high standards, inclusivity, and personal development is evident in its outstanding inspection results, reflecting its dedication to the success and well-being of every pupil.
