St Oswald’s Catholic Primary School in Gosforth, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, has been evaluated as a good school with outstanding features in several areas. The inspection, conducted on 13 and 14 December 2022, highlighted the caring and resilient nature of the pupils, who demonstrate a strong eagerness to learn. The school fosters positive relationships and excellent behavior, contributing to a vibrant school community. Pupils exhibit a strong sense of right and wrong, with bullying being rarely observed. The school ethos of living, learning, and loving together with Christ is evident in the respect pupils show towards one another, especially towards those who are different.
The staff at St Oswald’s have high expectations for all pupils, encouraging them to celebrate each other’s achievements and work collaboratively to overcome challenges. Class discussions are enthusiastic, promoting a deeper understanding of the subjects studied. Pupils take pride in their work, and staff actively identify and nurture their talents and interests, ensuring that every opportunity is provided for them to thrive. The school offers a variety of leadership roles for pupils, such as school councillors and art ambassadors, and provides numerous extracurricular activities, including educational visits and after-school clubs.
The behavior of pupils is exemplary, with older students serving as role models for younger ones. The school has established a culture of high expectations, which extends to attendance. Leaders are committed to the personal development and well-being of pupils, with a high-quality curriculum for personal, social, and health education. Pupils are well-prepared for life in modern Britain, understanding the importance of safety, health, and respect for other faiths.
In the early years, children receive a strong foundation for their education, engaging in learning that is both ambitious and tailored to their needs. The curriculum is designed to enhance physical development, reading, and mathematical knowledge, with thoughtfully designed indoor and outdoor spaces that support learning. Staff understand how children learn best and prioritize the development of language and communication skills.
The curriculum across the school is broad and well-balanced, with a carefully chosen range of topics that allow pupils to make connections between their learning and the wider world. Teachers regularly assess pupils’ understanding and revisit previous learning, leading to high-quality discussions and a strong retention of knowledge. When mistakes occur, staff provide timely feedback, helping pupils to improve and take pride in their achievements.
However, the support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is inconsistent. While teachers know their pupils well and make some adjustments, the formal plans for these pupils often lack specific targets that align with their needs. This can hinder their access to the curriculum and overall learning experience.
Leaders prioritize reading and vocabulary development, with phonics instruction starting in Reception and continuing until pupils are confident readers. Additional support for struggling readers is effective, and most pupils read at an age-appropriate level. The school promotes a love for reading through various initiatives, including class reading sessions and book fairs.
Overall, the leadership at St Oswald’s is ambitious and committed to providing a high-quality education. They understand the school’s strengths and areas for improvement, with governors actively supporting and challenging leaders. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of safety established throughout the school. Staff are well-trained and vigilant, ensuring that pupils are protected and supported.
