School report
Inspection of an outstanding school: Holy Trinity Catholic School, Chipping Norton 24 London Road, Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire OX7 5AX
Inspection dates:
13 and 14 March 2023
Outcome Holy Trinity Catholic School, Chipping Norton continues to be an outstanding school.
What is it like to attend this school? Pupils learn how to make a positive difference at this inclusive school. They thrive due to strong relationships and a commitment to excellence that is shared by the whole school community. Pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), achieve exceptionally well. Children in the early years develop confidence and begin to make rapid progress within the curriculum from the moment they start school. Pupils feel safe and are happy to be at school. Bullying or unkind behaviour, no matter how minor an incident may seem, is not tolerated. Staff are considerate and determined to resolve any issues that occur. One pupil said, ‘If a problem happens, teachers dig, find the little parts and then solve it.’ Pupils are positive role models for each other. Behaviour is a strength in lessons, around the school and on the playground. Pupils love the responsibilities they have such as junior leaders, ‘buddies’ and house captains. Leaders promote care and kindness at every opportunity. Pupils enjoy community events such as ‘Memory Lanes’, a Chipping Norton theatre production involving pupils and residents from the local care home. Pupils are proud to represent their school through many sports, art and music events.
What does the school do well and what does it need to do better? Leaders are ambitious for every pupil. They have crafted an inspirational curriculum that equips pupils with the essential knowledge and skills they need to be prepared for their next stage of education. For example, mathematics lessons are inspirational and ensure that all pupils succeed. Meticulous teaching of phonics and early reading unlocks education for all pupils, regardless of any barriers to learning. Leaders highlight key vocabulary and use this to help staff build clear, connected sequences of lessons. These are linked to a thoughtful programme of educational visits and visitors to the school that help to make learning memorable. For example, pupils enjoy visiting the Houses of Parliament when learning about democracy. There are many artists, authors and musicians that come to the school to help bring learning to life.