St Gabriel's Catholic Primary School

Ofsted & RE Inspection Reports

Click on the link to read St Gabriel's Ofsted Report (6th May 2026)

On 6th May 2026, St Gabriel’s Catholic Primary School was inspected by Ofsted. We are delighted that inspectors recognised many of the strengths of our school community.

Highlights from the Report

  • Safeguarding standards were fully met, with pupils feeling safe, supported and cared for.
  • Inspectors described St Gabriel’s as a welcoming school where positive relationships underpin all aspects of school life.
  • Behaviour and attendance were recognised as strengths, with attendance above national averages and pupils demonstrating respect and kindness towards others.
  • Children make a strong start in Early Years, with effective teaching in reading, writing and mathematics.
  • Pupils with SEND and additional needs are supported well, with effective partnerships between school, families and external agencies.
  • Pupils benefit from a wide range of opportunities, including music, sport, leadership roles and charitable activities.
  • Leaders and governors were praised for their clear vision, strong values and commitment to continuous improvement.
  • Staff are proud to work at St Gabriel’s, and parents value the care and support provided by the school.

Areas for Development

Ofsted recognised that school leaders have an accurate understanding of the next steps for improvement, which are already reflected in our School Development Plan. These include:

  • Further improving pupils’ spelling, punctuation and handwriting anf ensuring assessment is used consistently to address gaps in learning.
  • Continuing to strengthen teaching across all curriculum areas.
  • Evaluating the impact of improvement strategies to maximise pupil achievement.

The report reflects a school with a strong Catholic ethos, effective safeguarding, caring relationships and a commitment to providing the very best opportunities for every child.

Click on the link to read St Gabriel's CSI Report (16th-17th November 2023)

On the 16th-17th November 2023, St Gabriel’s Catholic Primary School was inspected by the Catholic Schools Inspectorate (CSI). We are delighted that the inspection recognised the strength of our Catholic identity, the quality of Religious Education and the caring, inclusive community that makes St Gabriel’s such a special place to learn and grow.

Highlights from the Report

  • Catholic Life and Mission was judged Outstanding, recognising the school’s strong Catholic ethos and commitment to living out the Gospel values.
  • Inspectors praised St Gabriel’s as a welcoming and inclusive community, where everyone is embraced in Christ’s love.
  • Pupils have an excellent understanding of the school mission and confidently explain how they live it out in their daily lives.
  • Behaviour across the school was recognised as excellent, with pupils demonstrating kindness, respect and care for one another.
  • The strong partnership between school, parish and families was highlighted as a significant strength.
  • Leaders and governors were praised for their high ambition and dedication to ensuring Christ remains at the heart of the school.
  • Religious Education was recognised as a strength, with pupils showing secure knowledge and teachers using effective questioning to deepen understanding.
  • Pupils actively contribute to the wider community through charitable work, service projects and initiatives inspired by Catholic Social Teaching.
  • Inspectors noted the rich prayer life of the school and praised pupils’ confidence when speaking about the importance of prayer and worship.

Areas for Development

The inspection identified a small number of next steps to build on the school's many strengths:

  • Further develop assessment opportunities in Religious Education, particularly for higher-attaining pupils.
  • Strengthen pupils’ understanding of the different chaplaincy opportunities available to support their spiritual development.
  • Provide additional opportunities for pupils of all ages to plan and lead prayer and liturgy.

The report reflects a school with a strong Catholic identity, a vibrant partnership with the parish, excellent pastoral care and a commitment to helping every child grow academically, spiritually and morally in the light of Christ.