St Martha’s Catholic Primary School in King’s Lynn, Norfolk, has been recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on January 30 and 31, 2024. Under the leadership of headteacher Rachel Edwards, the school is part of the St John the Baptist Catholic Multi Academy Trust, which provides additional governance and support. The school is characterized by a warm and nurturing environment that fosters a strong sense of community. The vision of the school encourages pupils to strive for their best, and this is reflected in their positive attitudes towards learning. Pupils express enjoyment in their lessons, describing them as fun and engaging, and they respond well to the high expectations set by their teachers.
The school offers a broad curriculum that aims for excellence across all subjects. Teachers are dedicated to ensuring that pupils develop their knowledge in manageable steps, preparing them well for future educational challenges. The school places a strong emphasis on reading, with effective phonics instruction starting early in the educational journey. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring consistency in the delivery of phonics lessons and in the assessment practices across foundation subjects. Some pupils have experienced gaps in their learning due to inconsistent checks on their understanding.
Pupils at St Martha’s demonstrate commendable behavior, showing politeness and respect towards one another and their teachers. Relationships between staff and students are warm and supportive, contributing to a positive learning atmosphere. The school encourages the development of leadership skills through various roles, such as playground leaders and members of the school council. Participation in sports and extracurricular activities is encouraged, with pupils actively engaging in clubs and competitive teams.
The school effectively supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they have access to the full curriculum and receive the necessary assistance in class. The early years program is particularly strong, focusing on vocabulary development and fostering independent learning. Children are encouraged to engage in purposeful activities that promote concentration and idea-sharing.
St Martha’s also prioritizes the personal development of its pupils, teaching them about health, safety, and respect for others. The school organizes various events and trips that enrich the educational experience and foster a sense of community involvement. Pupils are actively engaged in charitable activities and demonstrate a commitment to environmental awareness through initiatives like recycling.
The quality of music and drama at the school is exceptional, with choirs performing at a high standard and opportunities for pupils to showcase their talents through performances. Governance is strong, with trustees understanding the school’s strengths and areas for development, ensuring that staff receive appropriate training and support.
While the school has many strengths, it is essential to address the inconsistencies in assessment practices and phonics instruction to enhance the learning experience for all pupils. The school is committed to continuous improvement and aims to provide a high-quality education that meets the needs of every student. Overall, St Martha’s Catholic Primary School continues to be a good school, with a strong foundation for future growth and success.
