St Peter's Catholic First School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 22 November 2022

Pupils are happy and feel secure at school. Children settle quickly into Reception Year because staff care about them and are attentive to their needs. Pupils are proud of their school and are keen to talk to visitors. Leaders and staff want the best for pupils. They encourage pupils to be ambitious and hard working. Pupils, including the youngest in the school, show good levels of perseverance and resilience in their work. As a result, they achieve well and most reach national expectations in reading, writing and mathematics by the end of key stage 1. Most pupils behave well in lessons and around the school. Occasionally, a small number talk over their teachers and do not listen carefully. But lessons are rarely disrupted, and staff manage pupils' behaviour well. Pupils have a good understanding of bullying. When it occurs, leaders deal with it swiftly. The majority of parents reported that their child has not experienced any bullying. Parents have positive views of the school. They appreciate the caring and nurturing nature of staff. Leaders ensure that their school motto of 'Love God and Love One Another' is lived by pupils daily.

What the school should improve

• Teachers lack the subject knowledge they need to teach the curriculum successfully in some subjects. They do not check how well pupils remember what they have learnt. This means that pupils do not achieve equally well in all subjects. Leaders should ensure that staff have the skills they need to deliver all subjects effectively and that they check how well pupils retain the information taught.
• The lowest attaining pupils are not supported adequately or given the right resources to help master the skills needed in reading. They are not catching up quickly enough to become successful and confident readers. Leaders should ensure that pupils have the right books and receive the support they need to achieve at an age-appropriate level.
• Pupils' knowledge and understanding of fundamental British values, and cultures and beliefs which are different to their own, is at an early stage. Consequently, pupils are not as fully prepared for life in modern Britain as they could be. Leaders should ensure that pupils understand and appreciate different faiths and cultures.
• Too many pupils, particularly vulnerable pupils, are persistently absent. This means they miss vital learning in school. Leaders should continue to work with parents to instil the importance of regular attendance.

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