Exeter primary leads the way for faith schools
An Exeter primary is leading the way for Roman Catholic schools in the region by converting to academy status.
St Nicholas Catholic Primary became an academy this month, leading the way for other Catholic schools in Devon, Cornwall and Dorset.
The Director of Schools for the Diocese, John Mannix, said: “The Diocese of Plymouth has been considering the benefits of a single Academy Trust for all its schools.
“So, while deliberations are ongoing, it is anticipated that St Nicholas will be joined by more than 30 other Catholic schools by next April.
“In the meantime, the diocesan network will continue to develop its collaboration and school-to-school support.
“St Nicholas is therefore in the vanguard for an exciting new way of securing school improvement into the future.”
St Nicholas headteacher Angela Folland said: “It’s a tremendous opportunity to take the school into the next phase of its journey to become a truly inspirational learning community.
“It promises more resources and will allow us to be more creative in seeking out richer opportunities for school improvement.
“We envisage there will be collaborative working across the Roman Catholic diocese and a stronger Christian identity.”
Mrs Folland said the academy conversion followed the school’s Ofsted inspection in 2012 when it was found to require special measures.
Since then two senior Ofsted inspectors have visited St Nicholas every term to monitor progress.
Their latest report, following a visit last term, found there had been good progress on improving pupils’ learning in English and maths and strengthening leadership and management.
Ten new teachers have joined the school over the last 18 months.
Lead inspector Karl Sampson says: “Staff have worked hard to correct the weaknesses identified at the time of the last inspection.
“There are clear signs that the actions taken by school leaders and managers have had the intended results.
“Pupils are typically making better progress in lessons because teaching has improved.
“In lessons, pupils are attentive and take a keen interest in how they are progressing.
“The parents that inspectors spoke to recognised the positive changes taking place across the school.”
Mr Sampson says Mrs Folland is providing clear and effective leadership for the school.
“She is ably supported by her senior leadership team,” he adds.
“The impact of their focused work to raise attainment is becoming more evident with each visit.”
Mrs Folland said the school, which is full for September, was pleased with the encouragement contained in the report.
“But there is no room for complacency,” she added, “and we still have a lot of work to do.
“Conversion to academy status can only enhance our mission to become a good, then outstanding, Catholic school.”
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