St Mary's Catholic Primary School

A Section 48 Inspection is a statutory review that all Catholic schools receive. It assesses three main areas:

• Catholic Life and Mission
• Religious Education (RE)
• Collective Worship
  
  

Unlike Ofsted, which inspects the overall quality of education, a Section 48 inspection focuses specifically on how well the school lives out its Catholic mission and how effectively it teaches Religious Education. Ofsted does not inspect RE in Catholic schools.

These inspections are carried out by the Catholic Schools Inspectorate (CSI), who act on behalf of the local Bishop to ensure the school stays true to its Catholic identity and continues to grow in faith and practice. Most schools are inspected approximately every five years.

The recruitment of a new Religious Education Coordinator has had a particularly positive impact. This appointment has strengthened subject leadership, providing improved curriculum oversight and clearer strategic direction for staff. Consequently, the monitoring of teaching, assessment, and curriculum delivery is now more consistent, leading to greater coherence and increased staff confidence in delivering high-quality RE.

A renewed emphasis on creativity within the Religious Education curriculum has also enriched teaching and learning. Lessons are now more engaging, varied, and accessible for pupils across the school. Pupils respond enthusiastically to opportunities for drama, art, reflection, and discussion, and learning walks show higher levels of engagement and participation. This approach has supported pupils in deepening their understanding of Scripture and Catholic teaching, and has enhanced the quality of both written and oral responses.

Chaplaincy provision has been reviewed and strengthened, particularly through the development of the Mini Vinnies and Faith Council. These groups have expanded opportunities for pupils and staff to contribute actively to the Catholic life of the school. Additional pupil responsibilities, themed prayer opportunities, and more regular chaplaincy‑led activities have helped embed prayer and reflection more firmly within school culture. Staff have also benefited from clearer structures for leading worship, resulting in greater confidence and consistency.

The review of RSE provision, undertaken in line with diocesan guidance, has ensured that the curriculum and supporting resources are current, compliant, and well-sequenced. Staff report increased clarity in planning, and parental feedback has been positive regarding both the updated materials and the transparent communication surrounding them. Pupils now receive a more structured and theologically grounded programme that supports their personal development.

Ensuring that collective worship is shaped by the liturgical year has further strengthened pupils’ understanding of Catholic tradition and the rhythm of the Church’s seasons. Observations show that pupils are increasingly able to articulate the significance of liturgical celebrations, and worship is now more closely aligned with gospel themes and diocesan expectations. This has encouraged deeper participation and reflection.

Finally, the creation of a Sacred Space within the school has had a noticeable and meaningful impact on the environment and ethos. Pupils and staff make regular use of this area for prayer, reflection, and small‑group liturgies. It provides a calm, spiritually rich focal point that reinforces the school’s Catholic identity and supports both personal spirituality and collective worship.

Overall, the actions taken have led to sustained improvement across Religious Education, Catholic Life, and Collective Worship. These developments have strengthened the school’s spiritual formation of pupils and increased its capacity to continue improving in line with diocesan expectations.