Newcastle school described as a 'haven' by Ofsted inspector

Pupils and staff at a Newcastle primary school have celebrated returning to the classroom with an Ofsted report highlighting St Joseph’s Catholic Primary as ‘a haven for those who attend it.’

The report awards a ‘Good’ grade overall and praises it for being a warm, caring place where staff know both pupils and their families well.

“Pupils smile broadly and are proud as they greet visitors to their school. The values of love, trust and respect are well understood by all. The school welcomes those from different faiths and cultures with open arms,” the report says.

Head of School Sharon Rogan said she was delighted the report highlighted the positivity and ambition of everyone at St Joseph's.

“We are proud of the community feel of the school. It is something we have worked very hard on, and we are delighted that this has been recognised in the report,” she said.

A member of the Bishop Bewick Catholic Education Trust, the school has 226 children aged from three to 11-years-old. Many children start their early years curriculum unable to speak English, the inspection notes.

Paul Brown, Executive Head Teacher said: “It was lovely that the inspector recognised the excellent standards and curriculum that we have developed over time at St Joseph's, but most importantly the intangible feel that the school has. It is a wonderful place to be for both adults and children and we are very proud of the offer that we make and continue to evolve.

Year Six pupil Oliwia Kaczmark said: “I love learning in lessons, but I love outside even more because of all the play equipment we have!”

Joseph Oruru added: “I love all of the opportunities to learn maths and RE. They are my favourite subjects.”

And Michael Cottrell also spoke highly of St Joseph’s: “Our school is great. I love learning about all the sciences in particular and our school gives us lots of opportunities to do that really well.”

The report also highlights the inclusivity which runs through the school.

“Leaders have made it a priority to ensure that differences are recognised and celebrated by pupils. Pupils appreciate their own and each other’s uniqueness. Intolerant language and/or bullying is never accepted. Pupils enjoy coming to school and attend regularly

“By the time they complete their journey at the school, they are confident. articulate and have often made excellent academic progress,” says the report.

“High quality discussions in classrooms help to strengthen pupils’ language and listening skills,” it continues.

Staff are ‘thoroughly trained’ to support children with additional needs and support staff are described as ‘an asset in the classroom and help pupils with SEND to achieve to the best of their ability.’

The curriculum has been designed to meet the needs of all pupils and their skills in maths is ‘a particular strength’ of the school. Resources have been carefully allocated to make the most of the skills and knowledge of staff. Workload and wellbeing are well considered and staff feel empowered to bring about change.​