St Bartholomew's CofE Voluntary Controlled Primary School

Overview

St Bartholomew’s is described as a school that “places families at the heart of all it does,” fostering a “strong sense of community” where “everybody is welcome.” The report highlights an “ambitious” curriculum and “warm, positive, and respectful” relationships, noting that pupils are “proud to attend this school” and feel safe. Despite challenges with attendance and diverse starting points, the school provides an effective education with strong support for inclusion.

Strengths

• The curriculum is “well-designed” and “ambitious,” with staff having “secure subject knowledge” who explain concepts clearly.
• Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are “fully included” in all aspects of school life, supported by staff who know them well.
• Children in the early years get off to a “positive start,” with adults prioritising communication skills and developing “warm and positive relationships.”
• The local governing body is “knowledgeable and proactive,” and leaders are “mindful of staff workload,” ensuring staff feel supported.
• Pupils demonstrate a “deep understanding and respect for other cultures” and benefit from a wide variety of sporting and musical activities.

Areas to improve

• Teachers must consistently check pupils’ understanding in mathematics and English lessons to address errors and misconceptions in a timely manner, rather than relying on later catch-up sessions.
• Checks on what pupils know and remember in reading sessions lack consistency and need improvement.

Safeguarding

The report states that “the arrangements for safeguarding are effective.”