As we continue to look ahead to our inspection from HMIe, which is likely to take place between now and the summer holidays, this week’s Friday Focus is on opportunities for wider achievement.

Cathedral Primary School is proud of its high academic standards and has an unwavering commitment to ensuring all pupils reach their full potential in literacy and numeracy. However, Cathedral also provides numerous opportunities for pupils to experience a variety of achievements in the classroom, the wider school community, at home and in the local and global community.  These opportunities and new challenges develop the confidence and resilience of our pupils.

OLGA Cathedral Primary School offers a wide range of extra-curricular opportunities (known as Come Clubbing @ Cathedral), providing pupils with opportunities to develop and hone knowledge and skills out with the classroom setting. These clubs are run by staff, volunteers and in conjunction with Active Schools and local organisations.  Extra-curricular clubs include weekly Friday Football which runs throughout the year.

Central to wider achievements in OLGA Cathedral Primary School is our bespoke ‘Rose Trainer Achievement Award’, named after the very first Head Teacher of the parish school (1878 – 1881). This special award helps Cathedral Primary School recognise and celebrate pupils’ wider achievements and acquisition of essential life-skills.  Pupils work towards Bronze, Silver and Gold across each of the seven levels (Entry Level, Infant Level 1, Infant Level 2, Junior Level 1, Junior Level 2, Senior Level 1 and Senior Level 2), gaining recognition for such things as being able to dress themselves independently, helping out with chores at home, making a difference in the local community, preparing a meal for their family and doing random acts of kindness.  Bronze, Silver and Gold certificates are awarded for each level, with a gold badge being awarded on completion of Entry, Infant 2, Junior 2 and Senior 2 levels.

Wider achievements are regularly celebrated at assembly and on the school website newsfeed.