The Sacred Heart Primary Catholic Voluntary Academy

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is a good school Standards declined following the previous inspection. However, new leaders have improved the quality of teaching and learning.

Standards are now rising throughout the school and pupils' progress is improving. Leaders have improved the quality of the curriculum in English and mathematics. Leaders have provided appropriate training for teachers and teaching assistants.

Leaders have established a consistent approach to teaching throughout the school. Leaders check regularly on the progress that pupils are making. They identify dips and respond to issues effectively.

Leaders, including governors, have a clear understanding of the sch...ool's performance and are ambitious to improve further. Pupils read with interest and enjoyment. They can describe in detail what they like about the book they are reading and have successful strategies to tackle the more difficult words.

The teaching of phonics is a strength of the school. Effective teaching enables pupils to gain early reading skills and use this knowledge when they read and write independently. Teachers provide pupils with exciting opportunities to write for a range of purposes.

However, they do not insist on the same quality and accuracy of writing in all subjects. Teachers ensure pupils can apply their knowledge of mathematics to different problems. However, pupils do not always explain their solutions accurately using correct mathematical vocabulary.

Pupils and parents praise the warm, family feel of the school. Leaders' concern for the well-being of their pupils is at the heart of the ethos of the school. Leaders ensure that the school is a safe place to be.

Pupils conduct themselves well around the school. They enjoy the opportunities that they have to work with different groups of pupils. They describe with enthusiasm the difference that they make to the world around them.

Children in the early years settle quickly into school life. Effective communication is established with parents and carers. Staff plan engaging activities which build on what the children already know.

Children in early years get off to a flying start.

Information about this school

The school is an average-sized primary school. Pupils are taught in single-age classes.

The majority of pupils are from White British backgrounds. The proportion of pupils eligible for the pupil premium is lower than the national average. The proportion of pupils with SEN and/or disabilities is lower than the national average.

The current headteacher took up her position in September 2015. A new leadership structure is in place. Most members of the governing body have taken up their roles recently.

The school became an academy in October 2012 as part of the Pax Christi Multi-Academy Trust. It became part of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Multi-Academy Trust in September 2018. There are currently 21 schools within this multi-academy trust.

The trustees have overall responsibility for governance in the school. The trust delegates some of its functions to the local governing body. The trust provides support for the school.

The school provides a breakfast and after-school club for its pupils. The school is a Roman Catholic voluntary academy. It underwent a denominational inspection under section 48 during February 2015.