Our Lady and St Edward's Catholic Primary School, Preston

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 20 January 2026

Pupils are greeted warmly each day as they enter the gates of this happy, welcoming school. Pupils say that they enjoy school and that all adults are kind. Staff provide warm, attentive support, which helps pupils to feel safe and settled. Members of the wider community speak about the school with pride. Pupils consistently rise to the high expectations set by leaders. Pupils achieve outcomes that are at least in line with, and sometimes above, national age-related expectations. They are well prepared for the next stage of their education. This applies to all groups of pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities and those who are disadvantaged. Pupils who encounter barriers to learning benefit notably from the school’s strong commitment to inclusion and its determination to support them. Staff identify and address barriers promptly so that these pupils make appropriate progress from their starting points. Pupils move around the school calmly. They are friendly and polite and immerse themselves fully in their learning. Their behaviour reflects a clear understanding of the school’s values alongside the fundamental British values, such as respect. Pupils trust adults to deal with the rare behaviour incidents or bullying issues that may arise. Pupils’ personal development is given the same high priority as their academic achievement at this school. A wide range of activities and events enhance pupils’ learning and enjoyment of school. This not only helps to sustain high levels of attendance, but also broadens pupils’ horizons and nurtures their talents. Pupils benefit from a well-thought-out range of clubs, including baking, football and art. Leaders place a strong emphasis on ensuring that opportunities to represent the school in competitions are open to all pupils. The pupil reporters’ club rounds up sports competition results and school event highlights to publish on the school’s website.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should strengthen some of the school's assessment systems even further, particularly in the early years, so that gaps in pupils’ learning are identified precisely and addressed swiftly.

Read the full Ofsted report (opens in a new tab)