Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School in Peterborough has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 25 and 26, 2024. The headteacher, Thomas Claxton, leads the school, which is part of the St John the Baptist Catholic Multi Academy Trust. This trust is overseen by CEO Kim Payne and a board of trustees chaired by Ruth Hollis. The school community is described as a family, where every individual is valued. The motto together we live and learn; we play and pray reflects the school's ethos.
Pupils, parents, and staff report a welcoming environment where students feel safe and supported. The staff foster positive relationships with students, contributing to an inclusive atmosphere. The school provides high-quality support for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities. Expectations for behavior are high, and students demonstrate positive attitudes and a readiness to learn. Bullying is reported as rare, and pupils feel equipped to handle any incidents that may arise due to effective anti-bullying training.
The curriculum at Sacred Heart is ambitious and well-structured, outlining what pupils will learn and when. Subject documents include vocabulary that aids in reading and writing, helping students build confidence. The school has made improvements to the curriculum, with well-developed aspects leading to better retention of knowledge among pupils. However, in some subjects, recent changes mean that teachers are still familiarizing themselves with the new curriculum documentation, which can occasionally lead to less effective learning activities.
Staff are dedicated to ensuring that children settle quickly upon joining the school. They identify the needs of pupils with SEND and provide the necessary support to foster independence in learning. The school has established clear processes for early identification of additional needs, ensuring full participation in school life for all students. In the Reception Year, there is a strong emphasis on developing communication and language skills, laying a solid foundation for reading.
Pupils are encouraged to develop their leadership skills through roles such as school council members and chaplains, which enhances their empathy and prepares them for future responsibilities. The school also emphasizes personal development, teaching pupils about physical and emotional well-being, the importance of exercise, and a balanced diet. Respectful behavior is evident in lessons, which are calm and purposeful.
The school effectively teaches Catholic values and promotes understanding of different cultures and British values, such as democracy and tolerance. Pupils learn to be active citizens through various school activities and assemblies, gaining awareness of social issues like homelessness. Leaders are committed to school improvement, prioritizing staff training and support, which is appreciated by the staff.
The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. However, to further enhance the quality of education, the school needs to ensure that all staff are well-trained in implementing the curriculum across all subjects and that monitoring of this implementation is effective. This will help address any gaps in learning and ensure that all pupils achieve their full potential. Overall, Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School continues to provide a nurturing and effective educational experience for its students.
