St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire, has been rated as good overall following its inspection in December 2022. The school demonstrates a strong commitment to the personal development of its pupils, who are described as happy, safe, and proud of their school. The Christian values of respect and tolerance are actively promoted, fostering an inclusive environment where pupils feel valued. The school provides a broad curriculum that encourages pupils to explore and understand diverse experiences, enhancing their awareness of differences in society.
Pupils exhibit positive behavior both in lessons and during playtimes, with incidents of bullying being rare. When issues arise, staff are quick to address them, ensuring a supportive atmosphere. The school offers various opportunities linked to the curriculum and Catholic faith, allowing pupils to take on responsibilities that contribute to their school and community. Initiatives such as the chaplaincy committee and sports captain roles empower pupils to engage actively in school life. A focus on sustainability is evident, with pupils reflecting on their actions and their impact on the world.
The curriculum is designed with high expectations, emphasizing vocabulary development and practical application in speaking and writing. While most subjects are well-planned, some areas lack detailed guidance, which can lead to gaps in pupils' knowledge. The reading curriculum is robust, introducing pupils to a wide range of texts and teaching essential reading skills. However, some pupils, particularly those with special educational needs and disabilities, struggle to keep up with their peers in reading due to insufficient structured support.
The school has made positive strides in supporting pupils with special educational needs, providing necessary resources and pastoral care. Despite this, there are still challenges in ensuring that all pupils receive the appropriate interventions to help them catch up in reading and writing. The early years provision is effective, with children developing phonics skills that support their literacy development.
The leadership team is dedicated to the well-being of both pupils and staff, fostering a positive working environment. The governing board is attentive to staff workload and ensures that additional expectations are beneficial. The recent formation of a multi-academy trust has introduced a more systematic approach to holding leaders accountable, although it is too early to assess its full impact.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to prioritize pupil safety. Procedures for reporting concerns are well-established, and pupils are educated on how to keep themselves safe in various contexts. The school maintains thorough recruitment checks to ensure the safety of all staff.
To improve, the school must enhance the support for pupils struggling with reading, particularly in key stage one, ensuring that they receive the necessary interventions to catch up. Additionally, leaders need to provide clearer guidance on the skills and knowledge required across the curriculum to support less experienced staff in delivering effective lessons. Overall, St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School is a nurturing environment that promotes both academic and personal growth, with a clear path for continued improvement.
