St Mary's Roman Catholic Primary School, Chipping

Overview

St Mary’s Roman Catholic Primary School is a small village school where pupils feel safe, valued, and included. While attendance, behaviour, and inclusion meet the expected standard, the report identifies that teaching quality and pupil achievement in specific areas need attention.

Strengths

• Attendance rates are above average, with persistent absence below average, supported by clear messages to families.
• Pupils’ behaviour is described as “respectful, self-controlled and cooperative,” with lessons largely free from disruption.
• Leaders provide thoughtful, research-based support for disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).
• Staff wellbeing is high, with effective teamwork and positive working relationships fostered by competent leadership.
• Pupils feel they “belong” and are celebrated as individuals, with bullying dealt with quickly and effectively.

Areas to improve

• Leaders should ensure staff select tasks that effectively develop pupils’ thinking and participation in lessons.
• Leaders must ensure pupils, including those in the early years, develop basic skills in handwriting, spelling, punctuation, and grammar.
• Leaders should build pupils’ knowledge of fundamental British values so they understand how these connect to daily life.

Safeguarding

The safeguarding standards are met, with an open culture where concerns are actively identified and managed, ensuring pupils are made safer and feel safe.