St John Vianney Catholic Primary School, Hartlepool

Highlights from Latest Inspection

What is it like to attend this school?

St John Vianney has an ambitious curriculum that meets the needs of its pupils exceptionally well. The school has a positive impact on the lives and futures of everyone.

Pupils are proud to be part of this family. Pupils and staff show fairness and respect, welcoming everyone warmly. The school follows its mission, 'Come as you are and grow with us', creating a highly inclusive environment where pupils are happy and safe.

The school has high expectations, and pupils rise to meet them. Pupils show excellent behaviour and have an exemplary attitude towards learning. They are enthusiastic and focused, continuously developing their independence.

The school encour...ages a thirst for knowledge. Pupils explore their interests through a 'skinny booklet of facts' linked to different subjects. Cultural experiences, including the arts, further broaden pupils' horizons.

The supportive family ethos is promoted by older pupils, who act as positive role models. Every child, from Reception to Year 6, belongs to a 'family at school'. Year 6 pupils act as head of families, 'Hoofies'.

They organise activities for their family. This includes Christmas tree decorating, acts of worship and afternoon tea with the headteacher. These events build strong relationships and a sense of belonging.

The rich learning experiences and this strong community help pupils to achieve exceptionally well.

What does the school do well and what does it need to do better?

The school has designed a curriculum that gives pupils an exceptional education. It is well established and developed from the starting point of the most disadvantaged pupils, including pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).

The curriculum covers a wide range of subjects tailored to meet the needs of all pupils. It aims high in its ambitions. Subjects such as Latin help pupils deepen their understanding of word origins and spelling.

Staff deliver creative arts, such as music, with skill. This leads to impressive performances.Staff are experts at teaching this curriculum.

They address any barriers to learning before misconceptions can develop. This begins in early years, where 'key workers' have a deep understanding of each child's development. Adults help older pupils understand complex ideas and connect different subjects in practical ways.

For example, when planning a camping trip, pupils budget for meals. They calculate food miles. They also create healthy meals that minimise impact on the environment.

Pupils are confident mathematicians. This begins in the Reception class, with precise teaching and modelling. Children work with high levels of focus as they show their understanding of number.

Pupils know what they need to learn and embrace mistakes as a learning opportunity. They are confident in their ability to succeed as they have time to revisit their learning. Pupils are resilient and exceptionally well prepared for their next stage.

The school delivers a precise reading curriculum with consistency. There is a relentless prioritisation of learning to read. In nursery, phonological awareness develops through stories, songs and rhymes.

At the beginning of the Reception year, children begin formal phonics learning. They learn to recognise and read sounds in words. This strong foundation and prioritised practice allow pupils to build fluency quickly.

The school's carefully curated library encourages a love of reading. Pupils explore both their favourite authors and information texts. The commitment to reading extends beyond promotional events and themed days.

The school fosters a lifelong passion for reading through a comprehensive school-wide ethos.The personal development of pupils is exceptional. The school has created a curriculum that reaches beyond the academic.

It places pupils' needs at the centre. Carefully planned experiences and opportunities broaden pupils' horizons and aspirations. Important life skills are woven through this curriculum.

This is expertly sequenced. First, pupils develop a deep understanding of themselves. This prepares them well to build their knowledge about healthy relationships with others.

Pupils train to become peer mentors. They act as intercessors to guide others in resolving disputes. They practically experience 'walking in the shoes' of others.

This includes discussing barriers faced by people with physical disabilities. Pupils collaboratively create plans to solve access issues. They spend time without everyday comforts, such as electricity, or an equipped classroom.

Pupils appreciate these lived experiences. It gives them a deep understanding of equality and social justice.Pupils celebrate commonalities and engage well with different views and beliefs.

All pupils have equal access to activities such as learning a musical instrument. The school removes any financial barriers. When pupils are ready, they have a leadership moment in the spotlight.

This may be a leadership role or through collective worship, performances or musical concerts. Pupils speak highly of the Rainbows Club. They receive impactful support with difficult situations and with their mental health and well-being.

The school's exceptional leadership and management ensure effective professional development is in place. Staff are experts in delivering the curriculum. Local governors and trust leaders know the school exceptionally well.

They provide effective support and challenge. Staff are overwhelmingly positive about the support they receive with workload and well-being.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.

Also at this postcode