Our Lady and St Joseph Primary School in Pennington rated 'outstanding' in glowing Ofsted report
A PENNINGTON school praised by Ofsted as a “place of harmony” has been judged as ‘outstanding’ following its latest inspection.
Our Lady and St Joseph Primary School secured the top rating in all areas of the Ofsted framework, up from its ‘good’ grade in 2016.
Behaviour and learning were said to be exceptional, with leaders making sure all pupils, especially the most disadvantaged, consistently benefit from the “superb opportunities” provided by the school.
Executive head teacher Gerida Montague said the report “reflects every person in our school community and evidences the hard work and determination that has taken place over recent years”.
She added: “This recognises our vision and passion for a holistic education that puts our children at the very centre of all we do.
“A hearty congratulations to all of the people within our community who have worked tirelessly for all of our children.”
Ofsted said leaders and governors have a “clear and uncompromising” aspiration to empower pupils to become “architects of a better world”.
“This vision weaves its way through all aspects of school life,” said inspectors.
“Staff encourage pupils to consider others, within the school and beyond, in all they do and say.”
Teachers’ energy is “infectious”, the report noted, and they are always looking for ways to “makes things better”.
The curriculum was highlighted as “exceptionally well designed”, with leaders making good use of research to ensure best practice.
“Staff know the individual needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities,” said Ofsted.
“They feel well supported with their workload and receive highly effective training to deliver the curriculum.
“For example, teachers attend regular cross-partnership professional development days. As a result, their subject knowledge is excellent.”
Pupils’ work is consistently of a high standard, including in the early years, said the report, and children develop a love of reading through staff selection of “high quality, increasingly complex” books.
The personal development of pupils was also said to be “exceedingly” well catered for, with staff fostering their leadership skills.
Ofsted said: “Pupils are highly committed to their roles, whether this is writing a presentation for the climate change conference with their partnership schools or scanning books for younger pupils on the library bus,” said inspectors.
“As well as caring for all those within their community, pupils are also passionate about caring for those beyond their immediate experience.
“For example, they learn about the issues facing refugees and asylum seekers.”
Safeguarding at the school was also commended, with staff said to attend regular training to ensure they knew how to act on concerns.
“Leaders keep careful records and act swiftly to deal with any safeguarding issues,” said the report. “Leaders support vulnerable families well, making good use of external agencies and charities when necessary.”
A “committed” governing body was praised for providing “strong support and challenge” to leaders, and parents and carers were said to be “unanimous” in their “unwavering” support for the school.