St Francis Church of England Primary School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Main findings

St Francis Primary is an outstanding school. It provides an exceptionally caring, enjoyable and well-rounded education for its pupils so that they develop into high achieving, thoughtful and responsible youngsters by the end of Year 6. The headteacher, very ably supported by the senior leaders and governing body, has been very successful in creating an ethos, which permeates the whole school community, of high expectations, outstanding care and a consistent drive to raise standards.

As one parent said, reflecting the views of many, 'They bring out the best in every child.' Children enter the Early Years Foundation Stage with the skills and understanding expected for their age. Effective organisation a...nd careful assessment enable children to settle very quickly and become confident learners.

Their needs are met well throughout the whole school and their progress is excellent. As a result, pupils' attainment when they leave at the end of Year 6 is consistently high. Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities and those assessed as gifted and talented also make excellent progress.

Typically outstanding teaching is characterised by consistently high expectations of all pupils, strong relationships and careful assessment of each pupil's capabilities. Teachers' detailed knowledge of their pupils is used effectively to ensure that they make rapid progress. Excellent care, guidance and support mean that pupils throughout the school are interested and active learners and behaviour is outstanding.

As one parent put it, 'The teachers really go the extra mile.' The school's detailed self-analysis of its strengths and areas for development, combined with rigorous tracking of pupils' progress, leads to self-evaluation that is both accurate and very well focused. There is a strong team spirit and a sense of pride in what has been achieved to date.

This ethos, together with a track record of achieving high standards, shows that the school has an excellent capacity for sustained improvement. Safeguarding procedures are good and pupils feel very safe at all times. All staff work hard to create attractive classrooms with interesting and stimulating displays and attractive artwork.

An extensive range of additional activities, visits and visitors enhances the outstanding curriculum. Pupils enjoy coming to school because of the exceptionally strong relationships and interesting activities. This is reflected in their high attendance.

The school promotes community cohesion well at local and global levels through its work in the local community and multicultural activities. However, opportunities to raise pupils' awareness of the cultural diversity in the United Kingdom are less well developed.

Information about the school

The school is larger than most primary schools.

The proportion of pupils known to be eligible for free school meals is well below the national average as is the proportion of pupils with a statement of special educational needs. The proportion of pupils who have special educational needs and/or disabilities is about average. The proportion of pupils from minority ethnic heritages is average.

The Early Years Foundation Stage is taught in two Reception classes. The breakfast club, which is managed by the governing body, was included in this inspection. The school holds national awards, including Artsmark Gold and the Enhanced Healthy Schools award.