The Rosary Catholic Primary School in Birmingham has undergone a significant transformation since its previous inspection, moving from an inadequate rating to an overall effectiveness rating of good. The inspection, conducted on March 13 and 14, 2024, highlighted the school’s commitment to providing a safe and nurturing environment for its pupils. Under the leadership of headteacher Anne Norris and the oversight of the St Teresa of Calcutta Multi Academy Company, the school has made notable improvements in various areas, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management.
Pupils at The Rosary feel secure and well-supported, with staff dedicated to fostering a community where everyone can thrive. The school has high expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, as well as those who speak English as an additional language. This inclusive approach has resulted in good progress across the student body, with pupils demonstrating strong reading skills and a solid foundation in mathematics. The curriculum is designed to ensure that pupils can recall and apply their knowledge effectively across subjects.
Behavior in the school is commendable, with pupils exhibiting kindness and respect towards one another and adults. They are polite and welcoming to visitors, contributing to a positive school atmosphere. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports clubs and musical opportunities, which enrich the pupils' educational experience and prepare them for life in modern Britain by exposing them to diverse faiths and cultures.
The leadership team has a clear vision for the school, focusing on the academic and personal development of each pupil. They have acted swiftly to address previous concerns, particularly in safeguarding, ensuring that pupils are well cared for and that staff are vigilant regarding potential risks. The school has also prioritized reading, providing continuous training for staff to enhance their teaching methods. Early years education is robust, with children developing essential skills in communication and basic numeracy, setting a strong foundation for their future learning.
While the school has made significant strides, there are areas for further improvement. Some subjects lack clarity in the smaller steps of knowledge required for pupils to reach their learning goals. This can hinder the depth of understanding in certain areas. Additionally, the effectiveness of checks on pupil learning varies across subjects, which can limit the ability of leaders to identify areas needing refinement. The school is encouraged to continue refining its curriculum to ensure that all subjects are equally well-structured and that assessments lead to meaningful improvements in teaching and learning.
Overall, The Rosary Catholic Primary School has demonstrated a strong commitment to enhancing the educational experience for its pupils. The positive changes implemented by the leadership team have resulted in a supportive and effective learning environment. With ongoing efforts to refine the curriculum and assessment practices, the school is well-positioned to continue its trajectory of improvement and success. The dedication of the staff and the positive attitudes of the pupils contribute to a vibrant school community where everyone is encouraged to achieve their full potential.
