A primary school, which was rated ‘Good’ at its last Ofsted inspection, has “improved significantly”, according to a new glowing report from the education watchdog.
The children who attend St Mary Magdalen’s Catholic Primary School, which is part of Bishop Chadwick Catholic Education Trust, are “happy, safe and enjoy learning”.
Ofsted lead inspector Alison Stephenson said in her report: “Pupils flourish at St. Mary Magdalen’s School. This nurturing and inspirational school has high expectations for all.
“Parents are highly supportive of the school. One parent captured the sentiments of many when they said, ‘My children love it here. We appreciate the exceptional education and support that my children receive.’
“Pupils’ behaviour is exceptional. Conduct in lessons and at playtime is impeccable. Pupils are resilient and motivated learners. They work hard and take pride in their work.
“Staff are proud to work at the school. Morale is high. Staff appreciate the school’s consideration of their wellbeing and workload. Highly regarded leaders have a clear vision and are ambitious for the school. The Trust and those responsible for governance are knowledgeable. They provide effective support and challenge to leaders at all levels.”
The school’s buddy system was also highlighted in the report for helping pupils to develop a greater sense of responsibility and to become “confident and considerate”.
“Pupils support younger children at playtimes,” continues the report. “This helps children in the Reception class to settle quickly and feel part of the school family.
“The school enhances the curriculum with carefully chosen visits and visitors. For example, visitors from a local business come to talk about sustainability. These opportunities inspire pupils’ curiosity.
“There is a rich offer of clubs and leadership roles. Pupils are extremely proud of their valuable contribution to the local parish and wider community. For example, the ‘Ave Maria’ group enjoyed Irish dancing with the local parish.”
The curriculum is “highly ambitious and carefully designed” to complement the school’s mixed-aged classes. In every subject, key knowledge, vocabulary and skills are clearly identified and pupils make excellent progress through the curriculum and produce work of a high quality. Pupils in Year 6 leave school very well prepared for the next stage of their education.
Teachers are “highly skilled” and implement the curriculum with expertise, using their strong subject knowledge to present new information clearly.
“The school places the highest priority on making sure that pupils learn to read quickly,” adds the report.
“The phonics programme is implemented with precision. Staff check pupils’ learning often and provide personalised support for those who need it. Books are carefully matched to the sounds that pupils are learning. This helps pupils to read with fluency, confidence and enjoyment.
“Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are exceptionally well supported. Dedicated and well-trained staff swiftly identify pupils with SEND. Pupils fully access the same ambitious curriculum as their peers. The school adapts the delivery of the curriculum incredibly well. Expert support helps pupils to learn with increasing fluency and independence.”
The children and young people also benefit from “strong pastoral care” and learn strategies that help them to manage their emotions and behaviour.
Headteacher Andrea Goodwin said: “We are thrilled that the dedication and passion of our school staff, governors and fabulous children has been recognised during our recent Ofsted inspection.
“The commitment and unity of our school community is what makes St Mary Magdalen’s such a unique and special place to be. Our journey to strive for excellence will continue as we work together in our shared mission to ensure our children thrive and are fully prepared to engage in the world in which they live.”
The Dene House Road school was inspected last month [March].
For more information about St Mary Magdalen’s Catholic Primary School, visit www.stmmschool.co.uk
For more information about BCCET, visit www.bccet.org.uk
ENDS
Photo captions: Headteacher Andrea Goodwin, pictured second from right, with pupils of St Mary Magdalen’s Catholic Primary School.
Press release issued by SASS media on behalf of Bishop Chadwick Catholic Education Trust. For more information, contact Sarah Dale on 07814 976582.