St Patrick's Catholic Primary School, A Voluntary Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 11 October 2022

Pupils are happy at St Patrick's school. They enjoy school and feel safe. Leaders and staff share the same aims of pupils belonging, caring and sharing. These are clear to see in everyday school life. Leaders have high expectations of all pupils. Pupils know the school rules and try hard to follow them. They understand the reward system. They enjoy earning postcards home and a place on the recognition board. The house system gives pupils a sense of responsibility. They are able to vote for their peers to become house captains and chaplains. Behaviour in school is calm. Pupils respect adults and their peers. The playground is a happy place to be and full of laughter. Pupils enjoy traditional games, like hopscotch and skipping. Pupils say bullying does not happen very often, but if it does, teachers deal with it. If pupils are concerned, they know they can use the worry box. They say teachers care and help them resolve any issues. Parents and carers are overwhelmingly positive about the school. They say staff are committed to children's education and well-being. Parents say that leaders make them feel a valued part of their children's education.

What the school should improve

• Although the majority of pupils' behaviour is good, there is some low-level disruption. Teachers address this. However, at times, the low-level disruption continues. Sometimes, this affects other pupils' learning. Leaders should ensure that teachers and support staff have the knowledge and skills necessary to manage pupils' behaviour, so that all pupils are able to learn in lessons.
• The relationships, sex and health education (RSHE) curriculum is not always taught in a way that allows pupils to understand important knowledge, particularly in their learning about relationships. As a result, not all pupils have a good enough understanding of the different types of relationships that exist. Leaders should ensure that the teaching of RSHE enables all pupils to develop a secure understanding of the different types of relationships, to prepare pupils fully for life in modern Britain.

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