St John's Church of England Primary School

Overview

Pupils at St John’s Church of England Primary School develop a “deep sense of belonging” and “enduring sense of safety and security” through strong cross-age friendships. The school delivers a “broad and balanced curriculum” with effective early reading provision and positive behaviour, though inconsistencies remain in teaching foundational writing skills and adapting learning for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).

Strengths

• Pupils exhibit “kind” behaviour and “positive views of reading,” supported by staff trained in early reading who ensure timely intervention for those not yet fluent.
• The curriculum is enriched by practical experiences, such as “local field trips” in geography, and a new writing curriculum has improved outcomes for older pupils.
• Character development is a strength, with pupils learning to “live life in all its fullness” and developing “inner confidence” through extra-curricular opportunities and community responsibility.
• Leaders and governors share a “clear and ambitious vision,” maintaining an “open culture” and considering staff workload in decision-making.

Areas to improve

• The writing curriculum for younger pupils lacks sufficient teaching of “foundational knowledge and skills, such as handwriting and composing simple sentences,” slowing progress.
• The curriculum is not “consistently well adapted” for pupils with SEND across all subjects, leaving some reliant on adult support and hindering their access to the intended curriculum.

Safeguarding

The report states that “the arrangements for safeguarding are effective.”