A primary school in Sunderland which has “outstanding relationships” and “shows love and care for all pupils” has been praised in a glowing report from the Catholic Schools Inspectorate.
St Patrick’s Catholic Primary School, which is part of Bishop Chadwick Catholic Education Trust, was rated ‘Good’ with ‘Outstanding’ Catholic life and mission by the CSI following its recent inspection.
CSI lead inspector Claire Garbutt said in her report: “The quality of relationships is outstanding. There is a strong culture of welcome and the school goes the extra mile to provide exceptional support and show love and care for all pupils.
“Pupils enjoy their learning and approach lessons with interest and enthusiasm. The behaviour of pupils is exemplary in lessons and throughout the school. Pupil outcomes in Catholic life and mission are outstanding. Pupils actively participate in and contribute to opportunities provided by the school.
“Leaders and governors are inspirational witnesses to the Gospel. They serve all in their community, especially those in greatest need.”
During the inspection, the inspectors interviewed several members of staff at the Ryhope school, which was reflected in the report: “It was clear that the school provides an exceptionally supportive community for all.
“Everyone is valued and welcomed in a spirit of generous hospitality, especially the most vulnerable. Specially themed cultural days, links with Norah’s North Pole, and generous food bank donations are all examples of this embedded culture of inclusivity.
“Staff talk about ‘our school’ as ‘our family’; they are exemplary role models for pupils. Through their relationships with each other and the love and care they show for pupils, they constantly bear witness to the school’s Catholic life and mission.”
Executive headteacher Jane Ward said: “We are so proud that St. Patrick’s has been recognised for our strong culture of welcome and support at every level.
“Our staff and pupils certainly live out our mission statement of living, loving and learning together, putting our faith mission at the centre of all we do, each and every day. We are fully supported in this by our wonderful parents and carers – St. Patrick’s truly is ‘Small but Mighty’.”
For more information, please visit www.bccet.org.uk
ENDS
Photo captions: Pupils of St Patrick’s Catholic Primary School in Sunderland.
Press release issued by SASS media on behalf of Bishop Chadwick Catholic Education Trust. For more information, contact Sarah Dale on 07814 976582.