Our Lady of Lourdes RC Primary School, located in Wanstead, London, has recently undergone an ungraded inspection on November 28 and 29, 2023. The overall judgement remains good, with indications that a graded inspection could potentially yield an outstanding rating. The headteacher, Ruth Boon, leads the school, which is part of the Good Shepherd Catholic Trust, overseen by Michael Corcoran and a board of trustees chaired by John Anthony.
The school is characterized by a strong commitment to the education and well-being of its pupils, families, and the wider community. Staff members are dedicated to achieving excellence for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum is thoughtfully designed and sequenced, enabling pupils to make significant progress and achieve well. Students display enthusiasm for learning and are well-prepared for their future educational endeavors.
Behaviour expectations are high, and pupils generally exhibit good conduct during lessons and playtimes. They engage attentively and support one another in their learning journeys. The school fosters a supportive environment where pupils can express their concerns to their designated trusted adults, contributing to a sense of safety and security.
The provision for pupils' personal development is exceptional, with numerous extracurricular opportunities that enrich their educational experience. Pupils actively participate in clubs, visits, and residential activities, which they speak about with enthusiasm. The curriculum is ambitious, allowing pupils to revisit prior learning and tackle new concepts effectively, resulting in high-quality work across various subjects.
In subjects like art and history, pupils learn about diverse artists and local history, enhancing their understanding of broader concepts. The early years curriculum focuses on developing language and communication skills through engaging activities, laying a strong foundation for future learning. The school prioritizes reading from the outset, ensuring that all pupils receive consistent support in phonics, leading to high reading standards by Year 6.
The school is proactive in identifying and supporting pupils with special educational needs, employing various strategies to ensure all students can achieve their learning goals. An inclusive culture is evident, with tailored provisions such as nurture groups for those requiring additional assistance.
The school excels in providing opportunities for personal development through educational visits and a wide range of extracurricular activities. It nurtures talents in sports, music, and the performing arts, ensuring all pupils can participate. Attendance and punctuality are effectively managed, with strong collaboration between the school and families.
Staff members express high levels of satisfaction with school leadership, noting effective workload management. The board of trustees is well-informed and actively supports school leaders, contributing to the school's thriving environment. Safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring pupils' safety and well-being.
This inspection marks the first routine evaluation since the COVID-19 pandemic, with the inspector considering its impact on the school. The inspection involved discussions with school leaders, trustees, and parents, as well as deep dives into specific subjects to assess the quality of education provided.
Overall, Our Lady of Lourdes RC Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to academic excellence, personal development, and community engagement, positioning itself as a school that effectively meets the needs of its pupils and prepares them for future success.
