Our Lady and St Philomena's Catholic Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 8 February 2023

Pupils feel happy and safe at the school. They know that any challenges that they may experience in the world outside do not shape their lives in the school. Classrooms are calm yet 'buzzing' with eager pupils learning, while music can be heard playing gently in the background. Pupils cooperate well together in learning activities and in their play. They eat healthy snacks and meals, including at the popular breakfast club, and are ready for their lessons. Pupils talk a lot about the importance of respect; for themselves, their peers and adults. They know that leaders expect them to do their very best. Pupils' behaviour at school is positive. They clearly understand what actions staff will take if the widely explained behaviour guidelines are not followed. Pupils' disagreements and conflicts are addressed quickly by leaders and staff. Bullying is resolved well. Pupils, include those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), make friends and feel included. They achieve well in the curriculum because of leaders' and staff's high expectations. Pupils know the importance of working hard to learn even more. Pupils benefit from extra activities, such as yoga, paper folding and gardening. They enjoy their special roles, such as being door monitors, playground leader and prefects.

What the school should improve

• In a few subjects, staff do not ensure that pupils can recall what they have learned in the past. Pupils then struggle to link their previous learning to what they are learning now and next. Leaders should make certain that staff build pupils' memory of the content of the curriculum. This will enable pupils to have better recall and be able to use their knowledge to learn new information more successfully.
• In upper key stage 2, leaders do not make sure that all pupils read a wide range of literature by a diversity of authors. This holds back pupils in developing their ability to talk in breadth and depth about a wide variety of authors, poets and playwrights and their works. Leaders should ensure that the content and delivery of the reading curriculum enable all pupils to read widely.

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