St Edward’s Catholic Primary School in Upton Park, London, was inspected by Ofsted on January 11 and 12, 2023, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has a strong reputation for providing a safe and enjoyable environment for its pupils, who feel secure and valued. The leadership team has fostered an inclusive culture rooted in the school’s core values of respect, tolerance, and truth. Pupils are motivated to embody these values, which are recognized through awards such as school bookmarks.
The school maintains high expectations for behavior, resulting in a positive atmosphere where bullying is infrequent and addressed promptly when it occurs. Pupils express a sense of community, highlighting kindness and acceptance among their peers. The ethos of mutual support is evident, with older students engaging in activities that benefit younger pupils, such as reading sessions and playtime assistance.
The early years provision is characterized by a vibrant and engaging learning environment. Children are encouraged to articulate their feelings and emotions, fostering their social and emotional development. Pupils take pride in their responsibilities, such as participating in the pupil parliament, where they contribute to school improvements and lead charitable initiatives.
The curriculum is broad and well-structured, with clear learning objectives established for each subject and year group. Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and facilitate discussions that help pupils clarify their understanding. Regular assessments allow teachers to adapt their instruction to address any misconceptions, ensuring that learning is tailored to the needs of all students.
Pupils are taught to research effectively, which promotes independence in their learning. For instance, in art classes, they explore the life of artist John Virtue to gain insights into his work. The school is committed to inclusivity, with adaptations made for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. However, there are instances where the curriculum progression for pupils with complex needs is not as effective, indicating a need for clearer identification of the incremental steps required for their learning.
Reading is a priority at St Edward’s, with a strong culture of literacy evident throughout the school. Pupils and staff share a passion for reading, and phonics instruction begins in Reception. While most pupils read books that align with their phonics knowledge, some weaker readers are not consistently matched with appropriate texts, hindering their fluency and accuracy. Leaders are proactive in identifying pupils who require additional support, although this support sometimes lacks precision in addressing specific gaps in knowledge.
The school effectively manages low-level disruption, ensuring that learning is not interrupted. In the early years, children learn essential social skills such as sharing and cooperation. For those needing extra assistance, counseling and mentoring services are available.
Leaders have a comprehensive understanding of the school’s strengths and areas for improvement. Staff express pride in their work environment and feel supported in managing their workloads. The governing body is actively involved, providing oversight and accountability for the school’s operations.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with a strong culture of safety established. Staff receive regular training to recognize and report concerns, and pupils are aware of how to seek help. The school collaborates with external agencies to ensure that pupils receive necessary support.
Overall, St Edward’s Catholic Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education in a nurturing environment. While there are areas for growth, particularly in supporting pupils with complex needs and ensuring that reading materials are appropriately matched, the school is well-positioned to continue its positive trajectory.
