St Malachy's Primary School

Overview

This sustaining improvement inspection was significantly constrained by industrial action, as teachers refused to cooperate with the inspection team. Consequently, the Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) was unable to fully evaluate the quality of learning and teaching or assure stakeholders of the education provided. The report notes that these limitations will be reflected in future inspection activity.

Strengths

• The new school development planning process is "well under way" and informed by consultation with children, parents, staff, and governors.
• A "systematic approach to self-evaluation is in place," using extensive data to identify priorities and set targets for improvement.
• Literacy samples indicate "differentiation and clear progression" through year groups, with children regularly involved in self- and peer-assessment.
• Year 6 pupils report "good opportunities to develop their leadership capabilities" through schemes such as ‘Digital Leaders’ and ‘playground buddies’.
• Children appreciate the range of after-school activities and welcome the opportunity to provide feedback through regular questionnaires.

Areas to improve

• The report identifies no specific areas for improvement, as the ETI was "unable to evaluate fully" the line of inquiry or the quality of learning and teaching within classrooms due to staff non-cooperation.

Safeguarding

The school provided evidence that safeguarding arrangements "reflect broadly the guidance from the Department of Education," and children report feeling safe and aware of procedures, though the ETI was unable to fully evaluate the outworking of these arrangements.