St Joseph's Catholic Primary in Stanley, County Durham, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 7 and 8, 2024. Under the leadership of headteacher Jill Burgess, the school is part of the Bishop Wilkinson Catholic Education Trust, which provides additional support and oversight. The school fosters a welcoming environment where pupils feel happy and safe, demonstrating pride in their community. Staff maintain high expectations for students, encouraging them to strive for excellence. The Catholic ethos promotes kindness and mutual respect among pupils, contributing to a positive school culture.
The curriculum at St Joseph's is ambitious and well-structured, motivating pupils to engage actively in their learning. The school offers a variety of educational visits and extracurricular activities that broaden students' interests and experiences. Continuous professional development for staff ensures that they are equipped to meet the diverse needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The nurturing environment supports these pupils effectively, allowing them to thrive alongside their peers.
Pupil behavior is commendable, with students displaying politeness and respect towards teachers and each other. The school emphasizes safe internet use and has effective measures in place to address bullying, which is infrequent. Leadership opportunities for pupils help build their confidence and self-esteem. However, attendance remains an area for improvement, and school leaders are actively working to enhance this aspect.
The school excels in embedding a rich curriculum, with a strong focus on vocabulary development. Teachers introduce new vocabulary in engaging ways, and pupils articulate their learning confidently. Regular opportunities for revisiting prior knowledge help reinforce learning, and students are motivated to succeed. Tailored support for pupils with special educational needs ensures they receive the necessary interventions to thrive in their education.
The reading curriculum is particularly effective, with a structured approach that begins in Reception. Staff are skilled in teaching reading, and children progress quickly and fluently. Regular assessments allow for timely support, ensuring that all pupils develop strong reading skills. Older students benefit from daily lessons that encourage wider reading habits.
In the early years, children demonstrate kindness and consideration towards one another, showcasing excellent manners. The school promotes independence through various systems, such as turn-taking strategies. High-quality resources for role play enhance their learning experiences.
Community engagement is a priority, with pupils participating in local arts projects and the school choir. The partnership with St Joseph's church provides opportunities for spiritual reflection and community involvement. The personal, social, and health education curriculum fosters pupils' confidence and understanding of safety and risk. However, there is a noted gap in pupils' understanding of other religions and aspects of equality, indicating a need for further development in these areas.
Staff report feeling well-supported, with manageable workloads. The governing body provides effective oversight, ensuring that the school remains on track. While many parents express positive views about the school, some feel that communication could be improved to better support their children's education.
Overall, St Joseph's Catholic Primary continues to provide a good education, with a strong commitment to the well-being and development of its pupils. The school is well-positioned to address areas for improvement, particularly in enhancing attendance and broadening pupils' understanding of diversity and equality.
