Our Lady Catholic Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 5 July 2022

This is a friendly and welcoming school. Relationships are positive. Pupils are happy and enjoy learning. Pupils benefit from a broad curriculum that develops their interests and their curiosity. They are keen to share their knowledge and their ideas. Pupils appreciate the various trips and visitors to school. These experiences help pupils connect their learning with the wider world. Pupils make good progress. They are well prepared for the next stage of their education. Pupils behave well. They are polite and respectful. Pupils respond to the high expectations that adults have of their learning and their behaviour. Pupils listen carefully to adults and to each other. Pupils are proud to take on additional responsibilities in school. They carry out their roles with commitment and enthusiasm. Pupils feel safe. They are confident that adults will help them sort out any worries they may have. Pupils know who to talk to in school when they have any concerns. Pupils say that bullying is rare. When it happens, it is followed up quickly and resolved by staff. Most parents and carers are positive about the school. They feel they are part of a caring school community in which their children flourish.

What the school should improve

• Leaders have introduced a new programme for the systematic teaching of synthetic phonics and early reading. Staff have taken part in relevant training. Leaders should ensure that staff continue to receive the guidance and training they need to implement the new programme well, building on the effective practice that is already in place. This includes ensuring that the additional support for pupils who are at the early stages of reading fluency is consistently strong.
• Some subject leaders are new to their role and need to develop confidence in their role. This is so they can drive further improvements in their subject and in the curriculum.

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