St Maria Goretti Catholic Academy

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is a good school because; The majority of pupils make good progress and learn well in many subjects. Since the previous inspection attainment in English and mathematics has risen considerably. It now broadly matches national averages.

Pupils' progress in reading is especially strong so that, from low starting points on entry to the school, most pupils leave in Year 6 with attainment above national averages. Teaching and learning are good across the school and some teaching is outstanding. Teachers have high expectations of pupils and ensure that their lessons are interesting and help pupils to learn effectively.

Pupils enjoy being in school and behaviour ...is good. Pupils say they feel safe and highly valued because of the high levels of care and support they receive. The executive headteacher, ably supported by the governing body, has driven improvement forward over the last two years with energy and skill.

Weaker teaching has been robustly challenged, expectations considerably raised and staffing almost completely restructured. Given these changes, the ability of the school to bring about sustained improvement is good. It is not yet an outstanding school because : Too few pupils gain higher grades in mathematics and weaknesses remain in standards of writing in Year 4.

Some pupils do not yet work effectively in an independent manner, especially those who are more-able. Attendance at school remains below average, which impacts upon the continuity of some pupils' learning experiences and limits their progress.

Information about this school

This is an average-sized school,.

The proportion of pupils supported through school action is well above average. The proportion of pupils supported at school action plus or with a statement of special educational need is average. The proportion of pupils known to be eligible for pupil premium funding is well above average.

The vast majority of pupils are of White British heritage, but the proportion of pupils who speakt English as an additional language has risen to above average this year through the changing intake of the school. In September 2010, the school entered into a collaboration with St Gregory's Catholic Primary School. Both schools retain their own governing body but share a strategic governor steering group and an executive headteacher.

The school operates its own before-school and breakfast club. The school has many awards, including Healthy Schools' status, the Activemark, Eco-Schools award and Extended School and Quality in Study Support awards. The school meets the current government floor standards, which are the minimum expectations for attainment and progress.