A primary school where pupils were praised for their kindness has gone from being rated ‘good’ to ‘outstanding’.
St Joseph’s RC Primary School in Lanark Road, Maida Vale, received a glowing report in its first Ofsted inspection since joining the Saint John Southworth Catholic Academy Trust.
Inspectors who visited the school on April 16 and 17 found a “nurturing and inclusive” community.
According to the report published today (May 15), every pupil is valued as a unique individual and there are high expectations for all children, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).
SEND pupils follow the same curriculum as their peers, with adaptations to the teaching if needed – and achieve exceptionally well by being “fully included in the life of the school”.
The report said: “The curriculum is broad and highly ambitious. This helps pupils to deepen their knowledge and understanding.
“Pupils approach their learning with curiosity and make excellent progress in learning the intended curriculum. They are very well prepared for the next stage of their education.”
Children were also “kind, responsible and respectful”, while demonstrating high levels of self-control.
Inspectors said that as pupils get older, they increasingly take responsibility for their own behaviour and support each other’s wellbeing.
The report said: “Leaders, including trustees and those responsible for local governance, have created an ambitious culture that puts pupils’ learning at the centre of everything that they do.
“They continuously reflect on how to serve their community and build on the school’s strengths. Staff take pride in working here and are highly valued. Staff wellbeing is a priority for leaders at all levels.”
Headteacher Dr Ninette Fernandes-Viana said: “We have been judged outstanding in all areas and this is a real testament to our children, our staff and our parents.
“Our strong Catholic ethos and Catholic faith in action shone through. Our children’s awareness of their faith and our school community’s devotion to the common good were commended highly.
“Ofsted inspectors felt that we showed clear and evident links to the world around us, demonstrating inclusion and generosity of spirit in everything we do while also unstinting in our dedication to provide the very best education for our children.”
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