St Francis of Assisi Catholic Primary and Pre-School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 17 October 2023

Pupils at St Joseph's and St Gregory's like coming to school. They feel part of the school's caring community. Following a recent reorganisation of all pupils into one building, older and younger pupils welcome the opportunity to mix together. They have formed warm, positive relationships. Pupils understand the school rule, 'be kind, proud and safe'. This helps them to behave considerately towards each other and adults. Pupils and staff have clear, shared expectations for pupils' conduct. Any incidents that occur are usually minor and quickly dealt with by staff. Pupils feel safe and well looked after. There is always someone to talk to about any worries. Pupils' positive attitudes to learning start in the early years. Children in Nursery and Reception are happy and enthusiastic learners. Children in Reception are well prepared for Year 1. Pupils expect to work hard. They do their best to meet the high standards set by teachers. Pupils produce much work that is of high quality. Pupils are keen to share their views with school staff through groups such as the school council and junior mission team. They know that adults will listen. Older pupils are keen to take on responsibilities, such as being an 'eco-warrior'.

What the school should improve

• In a small number of subjects, the knowledge pupils need to learn is not broken down into precise enough, well-sequenced steps. In these subjects, the curriculum does not specify when important knowledge should be revisited. This slows down the rate at which pupils learn more complex knowledge and remember what they are taught. The school should ensure that important knowledge is broken down, logically ordered and revisited in all subjects, so that pupils' knowledge and skills build in complexity and depth in the full range of subjects they study.

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