St Mary's Primary School, Divis Street

Overview

The inspection was conducted during industrial action, meaning teachers did not cooperate with inspectors. Consequently, the ETI states it is “unable to assure... of the quality of education being provided” and assigns “No performance level available” for all key areas. The report notes the school is a “high priority for future inspection with no further notice.”

Strengths

• Parents commented “very positively” on the “welcoming, inclusive ethos” and the “quality of the learning and pastoral support.”
• The school has attained awards for using ICT to enhance learning, promoting a healthy lifestyle, and enhancing ecological awareness.
• Children reported they feel “safe, happy and cared for” and know “who to speak to if they have any concerns.”
• Children spoke “positively and enthusiastically” about opportunities to take on responsibility and express their views.

Areas to improve

• The report identifies no specific areas for improvement because the ETI was “unable to evaluate” outcomes, provision, or leadership due to the lack of cooperation.

Safeguarding

The school provided evidence that safeguarding arrangements “reflect broadly the guidance from the Department of Education,” though the ETI was “unable to evaluate fully” their outworking due to the industrial action.