Richmond's St Elizabeth's Catholic Primary School has retained its 'outstanding' Ofsted rating in a recent inspection. 

The inspection took place on 28 and 29 November 2023 and the report was published on 24 January 2024. 

Before this the school was exempt from inspection following an outstanding rating in 2009.  

The report says that pupils 'thrive' in the 'nurturing' and 'supportive school. 

It adds: "They are proud of their school and its inclusive ethos. 

"Staff work in very close partnership with parents and carers and the community to deliver the best possible experience for all pupils. T 

"The school develops pupils' knowledge and confidence through a rich curriculum and thought-provoking experiences." 

It goes on to say: "Pupils excel in their learning.  

"This is because the school has the highest expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).  

"Pupils are very well prepared for the next stage of their education." 

The report also adds that pupils behaviour is 'exemplary' and that there is a wide range of clubs that puplls can choose to attend.  

It says: "These include chess, gardening, art, music and the popular orchestra, which performs in the local community.  

"Leaders ensure that all pupils take part in these activities.  

"This is because they see such experiences as important for developing pupils' character." 

The report praises the 'broad' and 'ambitious' curriculum: "The school's focus on early reading is at the heart of curriculum thinking.  

"From the start of Reception, pupils learn to read using phonics. Staff have been trained well and teach with precision.  

"Pupils and those at the early stages of reading develop the phonics knowledge and skills they need to read with fluency.  

"Teachers make sure that pupils read books which match the sounds they know. They swiftly identify pupils who are not as confident and put in place a range of appropriate support." 

It also praises the SEND provision, stating the the school identifies needs with precision and that staff are ambitious for these pupils, ensuring that they follow the same curriculum as their peers with adaptations if necessary.  

The report finishes by saying: "Staff are exceptionally positive about working at St Elizabeth's.  

"They are proud to work in a school which cares for them and one which has such a strong 'family' ethos.  

"They appreciate the many professional development opportunities on offer." 

The report states that the arrangements made for safeguarding are effective.  

Headteacher Jane Hines said: "Our whole staff team is dedicated to giving our pupils the very best possible education and we are delighted that the Ofsted team who inspected us recognised the many strengths of our school.   

"I could not be prouder of our school community, our pupils, staff, parents and governors, who all work together to make St Elizabeth's Catholic Primary School such an exceptional place to learn." 

The Chair of Governors, Dr. Oona Stannard, added: "Governors are honoured to be contributing to this wonderful school.   

"We are proud of the diversity of the school and the welcome given to all pupils, as well as the very rich and exciting educational experience and outcomes which characterise St Elizabeth's Catholic Primary School.   

"The staff, children, and parent community are all to be congratulated for making the school the remarkable place that it is."   

Read the full report here.