St Elizabeth’s Catholic Primary School, located in Foleshill, Coventry, has recently undergone an inspection on January 30 and 31, 2024. The overall effectiveness of the school has been rated as good, with specific areas such as the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, and leadership and management also receiving good ratings. Notably, the personal development aspect of the school has been recognized as outstanding. The school has not been previously inspected under section five of the Education Act 2005, indicating that this is a significant evaluation of its current performance.
The headteacher, Michael Doyle, leads the school, which is part of The Holy Cross Catholic Multi Academy Company. This structure means that the school is supported by a wider trust, overseen by senior executive leader Marina Kelly and a board of directors chaired by John Teahan. The school community is characterized by a strong sense of pride among pupils, who feel included and valued. They strive to meet the high expectations set by the school, adhering to the principles of kindness and respect. The relationships between pupils and staff are strong, contributing to a safe and nurturing environment where pupils can thrive.
Pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, achieve well across most subjects. The school provides effective support in the classroom, fostering an atmosphere where pupils are eager to share their knowledge and skills. The range of extracurricular activities and leadership opportunities available to pupils enhances their educational experience, alongside educational visits to various cultural and historical sites.
Parents and carers express high levels of satisfaction with the school, praising the staff and leadership. The school promotes respect and resilience among pupils, with established routines that maximize learning and ensure safety. The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, allowing for clear progression in learning from year to year. Most subjects are taught effectively, and the school is actively working on developing its curriculum plans further.
Assessment processes are in place to monitor pupil progress, helping teachers identify gaps in knowledge and adapt their teaching accordingly. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in some foundation subjects where assessment practices are not as robust. This can hinder staff from fully understanding what pupils have learned.
The school prioritizes early reading, implementing high-quality phonics instruction from the early years. This approach has proven effective, as pupils quickly develop reading skills and a love for literature. Recent curriculum changes have also focused on enhancing pupils' writing abilities, leading to noticeable improvements in their skills.
The personal development provision at the school is exceptional, with pupils gaining a strong understanding of equality and British values. They learn about healthy relationships, nutrition, and safety, including online safety. The school’s efforts in character development prepare pupils to be responsible and respectful citizens.
Behaviour is generally good, although younger pupils sometimes struggle to meet expectations, which can distract from their learning. Attendance rates are above the national average, indicating a commitment to regular school attendance.
Governance is strong, with governors and trustees actively engaging with school leaders and providing support. Staff feel valued and supported, contributing to a positive working environment. The safeguarding arrangements in place are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils.
In summary, St Elizabeth’s Catholic Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering personal development among its pupils. While there are areas for growth, particularly in assessment practices for some subjects, the overall performance of the school is commendable.
