St Malachy's Primary School

Overview

The report states that St Malachy’s Primary School has a “high level of capacity for sustained improvement in the interest of all the learners.” Inspectors found that outcomes for learners, quality of provision, and leadership and management were all “very good,” with a particular emphasis on literacy.

Strengths

• Children achieve “very good standards in literacy,” displaying enthusiasm for reading and strong comprehension skills.
• The school uses data “very effectively” to track progress, including for those with special educational needs.
• Teaching observed was “good or better,” with the majority of lessons rated as “very good” and highly engaging.
• Leadership is described as “very committed” to improving learning experiences, supported by a “highly effective self-evaluation process.”
• Governors manage resources effectively and ensure children’s welfare and learning are central to decisions.

Areas to improve

• The report notes it will be important to “plan for, and manage, issues related to the sustainability of the school provision and school budget” to address current and future needs.

Safeguarding

The report confirms that safeguarding arrangements “reflect the guidance from the Department of Education” and that children feel safe, are “very happy in school,” and know what to do if they have concerns.