Saint John Fisher Catholic Voluntary Academy, Wigston, Leicestershire

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 18 November 2025

At this school, every child is known, valued and supported to thrive. From the moment they arrive, pupils are welcomed into a calm, nurturing environment where they feel safe and ready to learn. Staff build highly positive, trusting relationships with pupils and families, creating a culture where children are confident to share their worries and know they will be listened to. Clear routines and high expectations help pupils feel secure; behaviour across the school is consistently respectful and positive. Pupils enjoy their learning and take pride in their work. Lessons are engaging and well matched to pupils' needs. Staff typically adapt lessons to ensure that all children, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities, can succeed. Pupils achieve well across the curriculum, particularly in phonics, reading and mathematics. Writing is improving, and pupils are developing the skills they need to express themselves clearly and confidently. Pupils are well prepared for their next stages in education. In early years, children get off to a positive start. They are happy, settled and curious learners. The curriculum is language-rich and thoughtfully sequenced, with a particular focus on early reading and writing. Staff interactions are warm and purposeful, helping children build vocabulary and independence. Beyond the classroom, pupils benefit from a wide range of enrichment opportunities, including drama, music, outdoor learning and leadership roles. They are articulate, reflective and proud to contribute to their school and wider community. Attendance continues to improve, especially for vulnerable pupils, as a result of very effective pastoral care and tailored support. Leaders are committed to inclusion, ambition and care. Pupils develop the confidence, character and knowledge to succeed.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should further refine the curriculum that pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities receive to ensure that barriers to learning are swiftly and systematically addressed.
• The school should ensure that the curriculum, including early writing, is delivered consistently well across all key stages so that pupils further secure the knowledge needed for future learning.

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