A Catholic infant school has been rated ‘good’ in its latest religious education inspection.

St Gregory and St Patrick’s Catholic Infant School in Whitehaven has been praised for its “strong Catholic identity” and Gospel values, which are “at the heart of the school’s work”.

A Section 48 inspection carried out by the Diocese of Lancaster judged the catholic life and religious education at the school to be ‘good’.

The inspection report says: “Pupils have positive attitudes to learning and enjoy coming to school. They benefit from the opportunity to contribute to aspects of the Catholic life of the school.

“The Catholic identity of the school is strong. The focus on Gospel values is evident throughout the school.

“Leaders and managers effectively promote the Catholic life of the school, by keeping the teachings of Christ at the heart of all they do.

“Parents are overwhelmingly supportive of the school.”

Inspectors noted that since the last inspection, there had been “significant changes” to staffing with the appointment of a new headteacher and two new assistant headteachers.

The report says: “There has been a drive to ensure Gospel values are at the heart of the school’s work.

“All staff work together to ensure good outcomes for pupils. There are excellent relationships in school.”

Inspectors praised the headteacher and staff, who are described as “good role models for pupils”.

The report goes on to say: “Governors, school leaders and the parish priest are fully involved in the day-to- day life of the school, regularly joining staff and pupils for worship.

“They ensure that prayer and liturgy are central to the life of the school and are a key part of every school celebration.”

Inspectors also praised the “good levels of engagement” with religious education.

The report says: “RE holds a central place within the curriculum and there is a shared commitment from all staff and governors to provide high quality RE for all pupils.

“Pupils are engaged with the teaching and they respond with enthusiasm to questions, showing a

developing level of religious vocabulary.”

To improve further, inspectors have advised to “share the best practice across the whole school so that all prayer and liturgy is both catechetical and spiritual” and to “ensure there are effective professional development opportunities to further develop the subject knowledge of all teachers”.

Kirsty Rowell, headteacher, said: “We are delighted with the report which reflects the hard work and dedication of the staff as well as the kindness and love shown by the children in all aspects of their school life.

“The children constantly share our Gospel values with the whole school community and we’re thrilled that this great work has been recognised. Thank you to all involved including the staff, children, Governors and our wonderfully supportive parents.”

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