A city primary school previously rated as 'good' by Ofsted has maintained that standard according to its latest inspection report.

Staff at St Joseph's Academy in Goldenhill "put pupils' best interests at the heart of all they do and the pupils rise to high expectations set for them "and typically achieve well", the Ofsted report published in June said.

An inspector visited the school, which is part of the Newman Catholic Collegiate, in May.

The inspection report stated: "St Joseph's Catholic Academy Goldenhill has taken effective action to maintain the standards identified at the previous inspection. Pupils are rightly proud of their school and the many opportunities they experience.

"Pupils behave well. They demonstrate positive and respectful behaviour.

"Children in the early years learn good routines that prepare them well for their next steps. Older pupils are positive role models; they take on leadership responsibilities, such as 'play leaders' and being part of the 'world family team', which plans the school's community and charity work.

"Pupils benefit from many enrichment opportunities; they enjoy many trips to places of interest that help them to understand the world around them and bring learning to life. There are many extra-curricular clubs on offer to nurture talents and interests; there is something for everyone, and many pupils take part."

One area of improvement was identified in the report. It said: "In a small minority of subjects, teaching does not consistently build on what pupils already know.

"Some pupils have gaps in their knowledge and struggle to recall key knowledge confidently. The school should ensure that teachers check pupils' prior learning and support pupils to make links between concepts securely so that they know and remember more."

But the school's approach to reading and improving pupils' handwriting were both praised. The report said: "Pupils develop a love of reading at this school – they read widely and often, both in and out of school.

"Staff have high expectations for pupils to write clearly and legibly. Younger pupils have regular opportunities to practise and refine their handwriting techniques; this prepares them well as they move into key stage 2.

"The wider curriculum is broad and ambitious. It identifies the key knowledge and skills that pupils need to know and remember.

"Staff know pupils well and put pupils' best interests at the heart of all they do. The school has high expectations for pupils – they rise to these and typically achieve well."

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