St Bede's Catholic Primary School, located in Denton Burn, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, recently underwent its first inspection since becoming an academy in April 2021. The inspection, conducted on March 19 and 20, 2024, resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of Good, reflecting the school's commitment to providing a high-quality education for its pupils.
Under the leadership of Headteacher Leigh-anne Young, St Bede's is part of the Bishop Bewick Catholic Education Trust, overseen by CEO Anita Bath and a board of trustees chaired by David Harrison. The school caters to a diverse student body of 210 pupils aged 4 to 11, with a significant number of students speaking English as an additional language.
St Bede's prides itself on creating a welcoming atmosphere for all pupils and their families. The staff are dedicated to ensuring that every child feels valued and supported, fostering a sense of safety and happiness within the school community. This supportive environment is particularly beneficial for pupils facing challenges outside of school, as the school maintains high expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
The quality of education at St Bede's is rated as Good, with pupils generally achieving well across most subjects. The school has made significant improvements to its curriculum, particularly in foundation subjects, ensuring that important knowledge and vocabulary are clearly defined from Reception through to Year 6. The school's approach to developing language skills through reading is commendable, enabling pupils to access the ambitious curriculum effectively.
In mathematics, while pupils are encouraged to revisit and practice prior learning, there is a recognized need for improvement in applying mathematical knowledge to problem-solving and reasoning tasks. School leaders have identified this as a key area for development.
Pupils at St Bede's demonstrate positive behaviour and attitudes, with high levels of respect evident between students and staff. The school actively promotes personal development through various leadership opportunities, including programs where older pupils mentor younger ones. Initiatives such as the Mini Vinnies group allow students to engage in community service, fostering a sense of responsibility and empathy.
The school's safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring that pupils feel safe and supported. Staff are trained to manage emotional challenges and support pupils in resolving conflicts, contributing to a positive school culture.
Despite the overall positive assessment, the inspection highlighted areas for improvement. In mathematics, the school must enhance opportunities for pupils to apply their knowledge in practical contexts. Additionally, some foundation subjects require clearer assessment strategies to identify gaps in pupils' understanding and ensure that all students are adequately supported.
In conclusion, St Bede's Catholic Primary School stands out as a nurturing and ambitious educational institution. With a strong commitment to personal development, effective safeguarding measures, and a focus on improving academic outcomes, the school is well-positioned to continue its journey of excellence in education. Addressing the identified areas for improvement will be crucial in maintaining its reputation as a leading primary school in the region.
