High aspirations at Cramlington school

Strong and determined leadership at a Northumberland school has raised expectations for pupils who have ‘excellent manners’ and take pride in their work.

Significant improvements have been made at Ss Peter and Paul’s Catholic Primary Academy, Cramlington,  which has been awarded outstanding for personal development, and an overall rating of Good following a recent Ofsted inspection.

“Strong and determined leadership has raised the expectation of what can be achieved in the school. Staff and pupils are living up to these high aspirations. Pupils achieve well in the curriculum and enjoy a range of exciting and interesting activities beyond the classroom,” the report says.

The school, a member of the Bishop Bewick Catholic Education Trust, has 180 children on the roll aged from four to 11 and, before joining the trust, had been rated as ‘Requires Improvement’ by Ofsted.

Executive Headteacher Charlotte Chapman said: “The whole school family is delighted that the report highlighted the high aspirations we all have for our children. We are a friendly school and all work together to provide a caring and safe environment where pupils thrive.”

The report follows an inspection carried out in October and praises the ‘significant improvements’ which were ‘carried out with pace but also with care and leadership expertise.’

“Staff report that they have been supported and coached extremely well. They feel valued and proud to be part of the school and trust. Staff morale is high. Subject leaders have been carefully nurtured to gradually take ownership of their subjects,” the inspectors noted.

“Governance is strong at all levels. The local governing committee and board of trustees have the necessary training and experience to support and challenge the work of the school,” the report added.

The school encourages pupils to be confident speakers and lead their own assemblies as well as take part in speaking competitions. The assemblies are linked to ‘the language of the term,’ which helps those who have English as an additional language feel valued and welcomed.

“Pupils say that everyone is welcome at Ss Peter and Paul’s. As such, attendance is high. Pupils want to attend school each day,

“Pupils’ behaviour and attitude are a strength of the school. Support is available for those who need additional help with their emotions. Pupils can visit the Rainbow Room, a safe space to talk, draw and reflect. This approach to nurture runs through the school community,” says the report.