By Sarah Dale
18 January 2024
St Gregory’s Primary School in South Shields has been praised as a “calm and supportive” place for pupils to learn, during its latest inspection by Ofsted, where it was rated ‘Good’ with ‘Outstanding’ features.
The primary, which is part of Bishop Chadwick Catholic Education Trust, has impressed Ofsted lead inspector Mark Dent, who commented on “the respect and warmth that pupils and adults show towards each other,” which makes them a happy team.
“The attendance of pupils is very high,” he said.
“They enjoy coming to school to learn and see their friends.
“Staff also relish working at the school. They feel that leaders consider their workload and wellbeing and that it is a ‘fabulous’ school to be part of.”
The school was rated ‘Outstanding’ in both behaviour and attitudes, and in personal development.
Pupils’ behaviour inside and outside of the classroom is “exceptional” and their good manners are evident at all times. The children also have all the skills needed to “negotiate and reflect together”.
The Harton House Road East school provides a safe and supportive environment where pupils know that they can “approach any adult for help and they will receive it”. Younger pupils also value the buddy system, where staff allocate an older pupil to look after them.
“The personal development programme for pupils is excellent,” continued Mr Dent in his report.
“This is aligned with the strong Catholic ethos of the school. Pupils learn to be kind, within school and in the local community. Pupils also collect items for the local food bank and excitedly visit local care homes.
“The school’s ambitions for pupils’ academic development are also high. Pupils experience a coherent and interesting education. Pupils are encouraged to ‘think like a scientist, geographer or artist’. Lessons allow pupils to build their knowledge and to practise important skills.
“Leaders want the best for the pupils and staff at St Gregory’s. They think deeply about all aspects of the school day to keep improving things for pupils.”
Headteacher Alison Dunne said: “We are delighted with the outcome of our inspection. This extremely positive report highlights the commitment and dedication shown by the whole school community.”
The primary school was inspected by Ofsted at the end of November. Inspectors carried out deep dives in early reading, maths, history and music. They reviewed the curriculum for the early years, listened to pupils read from Years 1, 2 and 3 and observed lessons.
For more information, please visit www.bccet.org.uk
You can also view coverage of this story in the Shields Gazette.
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