Ofsted praise for 'oasis of calm' school

A Newcastle school provides an ‘oasis of calm’ where everyone is welcome and treated equally, says its latest Ofsted report.

​Our Lady and St Anne’s Catholic Primary School,  a member of the Bishop Bewick Catholic Education Trust, has high expectations of its pupils and has an ambitious curriculum, said the inspector.

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“Pupils are polite, respectful and welcoming to visitors. The behaviour policy supports particularly the most vulnerable pupils well. Behaviour is good. Pupils focus on their learning in class without distraction,” says the report.

The school retains its ‘Good’ status following the inspection, which does not give new grades to schools, but can recommend a re-inspection if needed.

“Leaders are working in partnership with the trust to develop an ambitious curriculum. The curriculum is clearly sequenced. Important knowledge and skills are mapped out to ensure that they are practised and revisited. Pupils develop their understanding over time and they remember what they have been taught,” says the report.

The school has 236 pupils ranging in age from three to 11 and was graded as a Good school in 2020. It welcomes children from all faiths and those with none and has been awarded a School of Sanctuary recognising its inclusiveness and welcoming culture.

“The school provides an oasis of calm where pupils feel safe. The values of respect, tolerance, patience and kindness underpin the school’s ethos,” the report says.

“Relationships with families are incredibly strong. Parents and carers describe staff as approachable. They value the good communication with the school and the support of staff,” notes the report.

A variety of after-school clubs covering a range of interests from football to cookery, is offered and the pupils are both happy and eager to attend school which prioritises reading for all children.

“Pupils with special educational  needs and/or disabilities are supported effectively to access learning alongside their classmates. Adults provide extra support when needed. Teachers adapt learning to meet pupils’ individual needs.”