St Godric's Catholic Primary School, Durham

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 23 November 2021

Pupils are proud to be part of this school. They feel happy and safe. Leaders make sure that they include the school's Catholic ethos of 'love, respect and value' within all areas of school life. Older pupils take their responsibilities as buddies for the younger children seriously. Relationships between staff and pupils are extremely positive. The headteacher has high expectations for all pupils. She makes sure that teachers provide opportunities for pupils to develop both academically and emotionally. Pupils display first-class learning behaviours. They are engaged in their lessons and contribute confidently to learning discussions. Adults help pupils to recognise and manage their emotions well. Pupils show understanding and support for other pupils who may struggle to manage their own emotions. As a result, behaviour and attitudes are exceptional. Pupils have a strong understanding of how to keep themselves safe. They recognise the dangers of being online and know when to ask for help if they are worried. Leaders provide opportunities for pupils to learn from a range of visitors, such as the those from the NSPCC and mental health charities. Pupils' self-confidence and resilience are extremely well developed.

What the school should improve

• Teachers do not consistently act upon assessment information to address gaps or misconceptions in learning. This means that some pupils do not make fast enough progress in reading and mathematics. Leaders should ensure that robust systems are in place to ensure that all pupils receive the support they need to catch up quickly.
• The curriculum plans for the foundation subjects (for example, history and art) do not support teachers to build pupils' knowledge sequentially. Pupils do not have the opportunity to build upon core subject knowledge in each year group. Leaders need to identify the key knowledge and skills that pupils must learn from Reception to Year 6, so that they achieve well in all areas of the curriculum.
• Governors do not make effective use of their monitoring visits to hold leaders to account. They have limited impact on the ongoing developments within the quality of education. The local authority and representatives of the multi-academy trust should ensure that governors have the training they need to carry out their roles effectively.

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