Glowing report for Star of the Sea

Pupils at an ‘inclusive and welcoming’ Whitley Bay school rise to the high expectations of them, and work with a broad and ambitious curriculum, according to a recent Ofsted report.

The Star of the Sea Catholic Primary School, a member of the Bishop Bewick Catholic Education Trust, continues to be a ‘good’ school where pupils trust the adults who work with them.

“Pupils benefit from the many enrichment activities offered by school. This includes clubs, organised nurture-based groups, acts of kindness celebrations and attending dance sessions before school,” the report says.

The ‘carefully considered’ approach to teaching reading was also highlighted, with the inspector noting that it started at the earliest stage of reading, regardless of the pupils’ age.

“The whole school family and wider community should be very proud of the report which recognises the careful planning behind our curriculum and strong relationships between staff and pupils.

“Our vision is for all our children to enjoy their seven or eight years here and for them all to flourish both academically and personally. We want to create fantastic global citizens of the future and for our pupils to have the chance to take part in a range of experiences to help them learn, remain curious and become lifelong learners,” said Headteacher Kathryn DiMambro.

The school has 366 children on its roll aged between three and 11, and staff are ‘overwhelmingly positive about the support which leaders provide for their workload and well-being. Governors and trustees support the school well and provide effective challenges to leaders.’

Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are also well supported by the school, which ensures advice from therapists and other external professionals is both understood and implemented effectively.

Children in the early years follow a well-established routine and learn cooperatively alongside one another as well as being enthusiastic when taking part in all activities.

“Adults ensure the curriculum is carefully considered and planned to develop the knowledge and skills they will need as they move to the next stages of their education,” the report says.

“Pupils experience many trips and visits, including trips to the museums, parks, beaches and local community areas. Pupils were especially looking forward to upcoming residential trips. These memorable experiences enhance pupils’ learning well,” the inspector adds.

The report also says that in order to improve, the school has to ensure the curriculum is equally well-developed across all subjects.