St Anne's Catholic Primary School, located on Pinkerton Road in South Ham, Basingstoke, Hampshire, has recently undergone its first inspection under the Education Act 2005, conducted on March 26 and 27, 2024. The school has received an overall effectiveness rating of Good, with outstanding marks in both Behaviour and Attitudes and Personal Development.
Under the leadership of Headteacher Martine Sadie, St Anne's is part of the Mother Teresa Catholic Academy Trust, which provides a supportive framework for the school's operations. The trust is overseen by CEO Bill James and a board of trustees chaired by Col David Kenny. The strong governance structure ensures that the school maintains high standards and a clear vision aligned with the trust's objectives.
The school prides itself on its inclusive ethos, where every pupil is valued for their individuality. Students express pride in fostering an environment of respect and appreciation, deeply rooted in the school's strong Catholic values. The mission statement, Let all you do be done with love, resonates throughout the school community, guiding both staff and pupils in their daily interactions and decision-making.
During social times, pupils actively engage in inclusive play, ensuring that no one is left out. This culture of mutual respect is evident from the early years, where children learn the importance of sharing and cooperation.
St Anne's has made significant strides in revamping its curriculum, ensuring that it is accessible and tailored to meet the needs of all pupils. The curriculum is designed to equip students with essential skills and knowledge for future learning. However, the inspection noted that in a few subjects, recent changes have not yet been fully implemented, indicating an area for further development.
The school places a strong emphasis on reading, with a commitment to ensuring that every pupil learns to read as quickly as possible. Phonics instruction is delivered expertly, with additional support provided to help pupils keep pace with their peers. The selection of reading materials is carefully curated to engage students and foster a love of literature.
Pupil behaviour is a standout feature of St Anne's, with a clear understanding of the behaviour policy among students. The consistent application of this policy by staff fosters a calm and productive learning environment. Pupils are motivated to engage fully in school life, demonstrating a commitment to their education and personal growth.
The school has successfully enhanced its personal development offerings, with various trips and activities that enrich the learning experience. The strong Catholic ethos underpins the school's approach to developing pupils as responsible citizens. Opportunities for leadership, such as the rescue squad initiative, allow students to take on responsibilities and support their peers during playtimes.
The safeguarding arrangements at St Anne's are effective, with a strong focus on ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. Staff are well-trained to recognize and respond to safeguarding concerns, adhering to the school's mantra of think the unthinkable.
While the school has made commendable progress, the inspection highlighted the need for further refinement of the curriculum in certain subjects to ensure that all pupils achieve their full potential. Continued support for leaders in these areas will be essential for maintaining the high standards of education at St Anne's.
In conclusion, St Anne's Catholic Primary School stands as a model of excellence in education, characterized by its inclusive environment, strong leadership, and commitment to personal development. With a focus on continuous improvement, the school is well-positioned to provide its pupils with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in the future.
