St Joseph's Catholic Primary School, a Voluntary Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 9 June 2026

St. Joseph's is a safe haven for pupils. The school provides a warm and nurturing environment where all pupils are readily accepted, especially those who join at different times in the school year. Pupils enter school happily each morning greeted by adults who genuinely care about them. Those pupils who need extra support to settle to learning receive this by caring staff. This creates a sense of belonging and security. If pupils have any worries, they know that trusted adults are available to listen and respond sensitively and quickly. Pupils are protected from unacceptable behaviour, including bullying. Pupils are proud to be part of this small and welcoming school. Most attend regularly. Pupils behave well throughout the school day. Older pupils act as ‘buddies’ during social times to promote positive play and kindness. Rewards and recognition for making the right choices are applied fairly by staff. Pupils willingly celebrate the success and achievements of others. From the early years, children are taught to be curious and interested learners. In lessons, pupils learn in classrooms that are purposeful and free from disruption. They benefit from the ambitious curriculum and staff's high expectations. Pupils typically gain the knowledge that they need to help them for the next stage in their education. Pupils are taught how to keep themselves safe, including when using the internet. They recognise online dangers and the risks to avoid in their local community. They know the actions to take to avoid harm. Pupils thrive in leadership roles such as school councillors, playground leaders and librarians. They recognise that they have a voice within their school and that they can drive change. Through these opportunities, pupils develop confidence and independence. They are prepared well for life in modern Britain.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure that teachers consistently enable pupils to recall their prior learning across the curriculum so that they can build their knowledge and skills securely.
• Leaders should ensure that gaps in pupils' handwriting and spelling skills are addressed, so that pupils, especially older pupils, secure accurate and fluent transcription skills.
• Leaders should further strengthen their work with families so that parents and carers are well informed about the decisions that are made to improve the school.

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