By Sarah Dale
20 January 2025
Two primary schools affected by the RAAC crisis have been praised for their “steadfast leadership” and “tireless work” to ensure that pupils received high-quality face-to-face education throughout enforced school closures.
Like many affected schools across the country, St John Bosco Catholic Primary School, in Sunderland, and St James’ Catholic Primary School, in Hebburn, were forced to close due to the Government’s announcement in September 2023 that any school which had reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) used in its buildings would have to close while security mitigations were put in place.
Despite the challenges of having to close the school buildings and spreading the children across different sites, every pupil received face-to-face education throughout.
The resilience of pupils and unwavering support of staff members have been praised in two separate Ofsted reports for the two schools, which are both part of Bishop Chadwick Catholic Education Trust.
St James’ Catholic Primary School, which was called a “close-knit and friendly” school in the Ofsted report, was praised for its “tireless” support to ensure pupils continued to receive the best education and pastoral care possible throughout the RAAC crisis. The children were educated at St Aloysius Catholic Federation and St Joseph’s Catholic Academy – which are both part of Bishop Chadwick Catholic Education Trust – and the Emmaus Room, which is part of St James Catholic Church.
Ofsted lead inspector John Linkins said in his report: “Despite the school being closed for almost a year due to the presence of RAAC, staff worked tirelessly to ensure pupils continued to get the best education and pastoral care possible. Parents praise the school for its dedication to pupils throughout this period.”
The primary school was also highlighted for its “creative and ambitious curriculum” and “clear routines” which enable children to “grow into confident, resilient and imaginative young adults”.
Headteacher Francesca Heslop said: “We are thrilled with the outcome of the inspection. After such an unprecedented year due to RAAC, to receive such praise from Ofsted is a testament to the hard work of our wonderful school community- the staff, children, parents and governors.”
St John Bosco Catholic Primary School was praised by Ofsted for its “steadfast leadership” during the enforced building closures due to RAAC and for creating a range of “tangible leadership experiences for pupils”.
The Sisters of Mercy kindly let Gabriel House, which is located next to St Anthony’s Catholic Academy, to be used as temporary classrooms to ensure face-to-face teaching could continue, and English Martyrs Catholic Primary School, also part of BCCET, made space for pupils to be taught by St John Bosco staff on site.
Ofsted lead inspector Emily Stevens said in her report: “During the last academic year, the school experienced significant disruption. Issues related to Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) meant the school building was unsafe. Steadfast leadership throughout this time ensured that pupils continued to learn. The school has successfully maintained its community ethos alongside a culture of high expectations despite these challenges.”
The pupils’ behaviour was also described by Ofsted as exemplary, respectful and polite in the report, with the children taking “great delight” in their learning.
Headteacher Lianne Peart said: “We are extremely proud of our outcomes which are testament to the care and commitment of our staff, the support of our parents and carers and, of course, a celebration of our wonderful children.”
For more information about BCCET, please visit www.bccet.org.uk
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