Pupils at St Mary’s Catholic Primary School in Chippenham have been praised for their kindness, exemplary behaviour and enthusiasm for prayer and worship following the school’s latest Catholic Schools Inspection.
St Mary’s, part of the Dunstan Catholic Educational Trust, was judged ‘Good’ overall, with inspectors highlighting its strong sense of belonging and the commitment of staff to supporting every child. The Catholic Schools Inspectorate judges schools on overall effectiveness, Catholic life and mission, religious education and collective worship.
Inspectors described St Mary’s as ‘a vibrant Catholic community where all are welcomed with kindness and love’, adding that pupils have a strong understanding of the school’s mission and how its values influence everyday school life. Pupils were also praised for the respect they show to staff and one another, with inspectors noting that their behaviour in religious education lessons is ‘exemplary’.
Staff were recognised for their commitment to pupils, particularly those who need additional support, with the report describing them as a team who ‘go the extra mile for those most vulnerable’. Collective worship was identified as another strength. Inspectors said pupils respond with ‘deep reverence and joy’ to opportunities for prayer and worship and enjoy taking on leadership roles with pride and maturity.
The school’s ‘Chaplaincy for All’ initiative was also praised, alongside activities including rosary club, Bible Society and CAFOD club.
Inspectors highlighted the value placed on learning about other faiths, particularly visits from people who come into school to share their beliefs.
The report also recognised the school’s commitment to Catholic social teaching, with pupils taking responsibility for caring for the world around them and helping others through foodbank collections and fundraising for CAFOD.
Headteacher Lucy Buckland said, “We are incredibly proud of this achievement and of the positive recognition it gives to our entire school community. The inspectors recognised the strong commitment of pupils, staff, governors and families in supporting the school’s mission and values.
“Together with the positive outcome from our Ofsted inspection in January 2026, this judgement is further recognition of the significant hard work, dedication and progress that has been made across the school in recent years. While we celebrate this success, we remain ambitious for our school and committed to continuous improvement.”
Helen Taylor, CEO of the Dunstan Catholic Educational Trust, added, “St Mary’s is a wonderfully warm and welcoming school with a strong sense of community, and it is so rewarding to see these strengths recognised by inspectors.
“We are very proud of the pupils, staff and families who contribute so much to school life and help create a place where children can flourish.”
Read more news about St Mary’s Catholic Primary School here, here and here
