St John Vianney Catholic Primary School, located in Coventry, has recently undergone an ungraded inspection, which confirmed its overall judgment of good. The inspection, conducted on 19 and 20 March 2024, indicated that the school might achieve an outstanding rating if a graded inspection were to take place soon. The headteacher, Veronica Gosling, 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 network of educational leaders, including the Catholic Senior Executive Leader, Marina Kelly, and a board of trustees chaired by John Teahan.
The school’s ethos is deeply rooted in the teachings of St John Vianney, emphasizing love and respect among students and staff. This philosophy is evident in the positive relationships that pupils have with their teachers, contributing to a supportive learning environment. Students express pride in their school and demonstrate enthusiasm for their learning. Parents report that their children are happy to attend school and engage in discussions about their day at home. The school fosters a sense of safety and well-being among its pupils.
High expectations are set for all students, who respond positively by working diligently in their lessons. The strong rapport between staff and students encourages confidence and resilience, allowing pupils to engage actively in their learning without fear of making mistakes. Early years children settle quickly and make significant progress, aided by a well-planned curriculum that prepares them for future learning.
The school has made notable strides in revising its curriculum, ensuring that it meets the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Subject leaders have identified key information that students should learn, enabling teachers to deliver lessons with confidence. The effective adaptation of lessons ensures that all pupils can access the curriculum, leading to impressive academic achievements. For instance, in mathematics, engaging lessons challenge students to deepen their understanding.
Reading is prioritized from the moment children enter Nursery, allowing them to develop strong foundational skills. The school actively supports struggling readers, ensuring that all children receive the help they need to succeed. The emphasis on vocabulary development and reading initiatives, such as reading ambassadors and workshops for parents, further enhances the reading culture within the school.
Behaviour across the school is reported to be excellent, with pupils trusting adults to address any issues that arise. The school’s approach to behaviour management teaches students to understand and regulate their emotions, fostering a respectful and calm learning environment. Pupils work collaboratively, helping one another and contributing to a positive classroom atmosphere.
The school’s commitment to the personal development of its students is evident through a rich curriculum that includes various extracurricular activities, visits, and guest speakers. These experiences broaden pupils’ horizons and encourage them to explore their interests. Parents appreciate the school’s dedication to nurturing their children academically and personally.
Governance is strong, with active involvement from governors who bring diverse skills to support and challenge school leaders. The collaborative environment among staff promotes a sense of value and teamwork, with attention given to managing workload and involving staff in new initiatives.
The safeguarding arrangements at St John Vianney Catholic Primary School are effective, ensuring that the welfare of pupils is a top priority. Overall, the school demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement and excellence in education, preparing its students for future success.