St Anthony's Primary School

Overview

The inspection was severely limited by industrial action, as staff refused to cooperate with inspectors. Consequently, the Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) was “unable to assure” the community of the quality of education or safeguarding provided. The school is designated a “high priority for future inspection with no further notice.”

Strengths

• The report identifies no positive findings regarding educational provision, as the ETI was “unable to evaluate” outcomes, quality of provision, or leadership.
• During a follow-up visit, children reported that they “feel safe in school” and know who to contact if concerned.
• The school provided evidence that safeguarding arrangements “reflect broadly the guidance” from the Department of Education.

Areas to improve

• The school must “set out a clear timetable for the review of policies” and ensure policies “reflect more fully the children’s role in decision making.”
• Significant health and safety hazards require urgent attention, including “very steep concrete steps,” “large potholes,” and an upper playground side that is “not secure.”

Safeguarding

The ETI could not fully evaluate safeguarding arrangements due to ongoing industrial action, though a follow-up visit confirmed that policies broadly reflect Department of Education guidance and that children feel safe.