St Joseph's Catholic Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 3 February 2026

Pupils are immensely happy at this school and genuinely excited about learning. They are eager to answer questions and challenge themselves. Pupils across the school typically achieve well. They have secure reading and writing skills that enable them to successfully access the whole curriculum. Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities receive precise support matched to their individual needs. This enables them to learn the curriculum fully and achieve well. Disadvantaged pupils also achieve highly. Pupils show great respect for each other. This is evident in their highly positive behaviour. They treat their peers with kindness and support one another in learning. These supportive relationships contribute to pupils’ regular attendance and enthusiasm for learning. Older pupils and those in pupil leadership positions act as role models. For example, prefects support younger peers at playtime. Pupils demonstrate a mature understanding of difference. They celebrate and value the cultural heritage of the school community. These experiences help pupils understand how to be responsible, active citizens in modern Britain. Behaviour throughout the school is impressive and pupils feel safe. Highly positive relationships between staff and pupils ensure that pupils can share worries when they have them. They know that others will listen to and support them. Leaders and staff foster trusting relationships with parents and carers. They know pupils and families well and provide bespoke support to meet individual needs. The school's values thread through daily life and pupils state that the school is ‘like one big happy family’. 'House teams’ help to create community as pupils strive to gain house points for their work and conduct. The school provides extensive enrichment opportunities. A vast range of trips enhance the curriculum. For instance, pupils enjoy a visit to the British Museum to deepen learning about the Stone Age. The wide range of clubs enables all pupils to try new activities and develop talents and interests, such as building an enjoyment and love of cooking.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure that the carefully designed curriculum is taught consistently well in all subjects and year groups, so that pupils secure sound and detailed knowledge and skills across all elements of the curriculum.
• Leaders and those responsible for governance should build on current work to grow leadership expertise at all levels, including subject leadership, to enhance strategic oversight and development of the school's work.
• Leaders should ensure that staff in early years maximise opportunities to engage children in high-quality interactions and learning throughout the day.

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