Children at a primary school in Jarrow feel “safe, deeply loved, valued and celebrated for their uniqueness”, according to a report by the Catholic Schools Inspectorate.
St Bede’s Catholic Primary School, on Harold Street, was inspected by the CSI on behalf of the Bishop of Hexham and Newcastle and rated ‘Good’.=
CSI lead inspector Barbara Reilly-O’Donnell said in her report: “Pupils know that their uniqueness is celebrated and they recognise that they are valued. They are therefore confident and extremely proud members of the community.
“Leaders prioritise the wellbeing of pupils and their families, as well as staff. Consequently, pupils know they are safe and deeply loved, and staff feel very well cared for and supported. Parents are highly appreciative of the high level of commitment shown by leaders to support them as their child’s first educator.”
The pupils at the school, which is part of Bishop Chadwick Catholic Education Trust, are “proud” to be members of their school’s community with one pupil remarking: ‘It feels special to be part of this school.’
“Pupils know and understand the school’s mission statement, ‘Inspired by Jesus to care, to serve, to do our best’ because it is shared in all aspects of school life,” continued the report.
“They recognise the distinctive Catholic character of the school and can say how this helps them to grow and become ‘responsible to care for others and be respectful’. They know they are loved, and consequently, they feel secure and valued. They recognise that they are unique and because there are explicit opportunities to explore the beliefs and cultures of others, pupils are respectful to all.”
Staff were praised in the report for the “generous” way they welcome and serve pupils and their families with a parent commenting on the “compassion and concern” shown to them during difficult times. Leaders were also highlighted in the CSI report for how they have “enthusiastically developed the St Bede’s Way” which supports the mission of the school.
Pupils make “consistent progress” from their individual starting points in religious education because they “engage well and try hard” in lessons. They can recall prior learning and discuss concepts with clarity. They are also keen to progress, enjoy their lessons, display a positive attitude and respond positively to feedback given in lessons to improve their work.
“Planned prayer forms the rhythm of the day across St Bede’s, and staff ensure that pupils understand that prayer can provide comfort and inspiration,” added the report.
“They regularly model good practice in the way they support pupils to plan and lead celebrations of the word. They skilfully enable pupils to reflect on celebrations, so that pupils can effectively evaluate the impact of prayer experiences. Staff authentically encourage pupils, and this results in pupils engaging joyously and ministering with enthusiasm. Staff create an environment which is conducive to prayer, using music and art to promote reverence. They develop prayer spaces in classrooms which are reflective and stimulating.”
Headteacher Mark Hurst said: “St. Bede’s is loving and supportive Catholic community. The report highlights the wonderful work that happens every day to ensure that each child feels values and loved. I am so proud of the children, staff and everyone in our school family.”
For more information about St Bede’s, visit www.stbedesjarrow.co.uk
For more information about BCCET, visit www.bccet.org.uk