St John XXIII Catholic Primary School, located in London, has received an outstanding rating in its recent inspection conducted on 29 and 30 June 2022. The school has maintained this high standard since its previous inspection in May 2008, which also rated it as outstanding. The inspection evaluated various aspects of the school, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision, all of which were rated outstanding.
Pupils at St John XXIII are proud of their school, describing it as a large family where they feel happy and safe. The school fosters a culture of aspiration, encouraging students to become active members of their community. Leadership opportunities are abundant, with pupils trained to be well-being ambassadors. The staff's high expectations for student achievement contribute to a supportive environment that empowers pupils to succeed and aim for positive contributions to society.
The behavior of pupils is exemplary, with children learning to interact positively from the early years. They are polite, respectful, and considerate, contributing to a calm and purposeful atmosphere throughout the school. Incidents of bullying are rare and effectively managed by the leadership team. The school’s commitment to personal development is evident through a wide range of enrichment activities, including gardening and cooking clubs, as well as special events focused on careers education.
The curriculum at St John XXIII is ambitious and designed to help pupils acquire and retain deep knowledge across various subjects. Leaders have taken into account the impact of the pandemic on learning and have worked diligently to address any gaps in knowledge while prioritizing pupils' well-being. Reading is a key focus, with a culture that values and promotes literacy. Staff are well-trained in phonics instruction, ensuring that pupils receive appropriate support to develop their reading skills.
Teachers are provided with high-quality professional development opportunities, enabling them to deliver the curriculum effectively. Assessment practices are robust, allowing for the identification of gaps in understanding and timely interventions. The school has established strong systems for supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that all students have equal access to the curriculum.
In the early years, children demonstrate attentiveness and curiosity, engaging actively in their learning. They show resilience and a positive attitude towards challenges, contributing to a smooth learning environment with minimal disruption. The school’s approach to wider development is exemplary, promoting physical, mental, and emotional health while teaching pupils about equality and diversity.
Staff well-being is prioritized, with leaders providing necessary support and ensuring manageable workloads. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff receiving regular training and being vigilant in identifying and addressing concerns. Overall, St John XXIII Catholic Primary School exemplifies excellence in education, fostering a nurturing environment where pupils thrive academically and personally. The positive feedback from parents and the community further underscores the school's strong reputation and commitment to high standards.