A “calm and joyful” County Durham primary school has retained its ‘Good’ rating from the Catholic Schools Inspectorate (CSI).
St Godric’s Catholic Primary School in Wheatley Hill, which is part of Bishop Chadwick Catholic Education Trust, was inspected by the CSI in January over two days.
CSI lead inspector Michael Ewing said in his report: “Staff ensure that all pupils thrive, are known as individuals, and enable every child to ‘shine like stars lighting up the sky’.”
The Thornley Road school’s mission statement is ‘Shine among them like stars lighting up the sky’ [Philippians 2:15] and the focus on celebrating pupils’ uniqueness and their strong sense of belonging were both highlighted in the report.
“The pastoral care offered to children is nurturing and the school’s understanding of each child’s need or vulnerability a strength,” continued Mr Ewing in his report.
“Throughout the school, the mission and individual identity and uniqueness of each child is celebrated.
“Pupils behave well, show respect and enthusiasm, and are proud of their school. Pupils are engaged in taking part in activities which help them grow spiritually and take a full role in developing their own faith. There is a strong sense of community where everyone is made to feel loved, valued and welcomed.
“Parents are very supportive of the school. They appreciate its calm, joyful atmosphere and the care staff give to each pupil.”
The report highlights that prayer and liturgy play an important role in school life and pupils “enjoy the varied opportunities for prayer and they show reverence and respect”. Every class has a space that is used for prayer and liturgy. Parents receive weekly emails to highlight the scripture for the week and provide support to help their children to understand this at home.
Executive headteacher Julie Hill said: “We are all very proud of our special school and the outcome from the inspection captures our nurturing and caring school family.”
Lead Trust chaplain Liz Boylan said: “The new framework is tough, and St Godric’s was one of the first schools to be inspected under the new framework. To maintain its ‘Good’ rating is phenomenal.”
The school was last inspected by the CSI in June 2016, when it was rated ‘Good’.
Reception places are available at the primary school in September. Contact the school via https://www.st-godrics.durham.sch.uk
For more information, please visit www.bccet.org.uk