St Stephen’s Church of England Primary School, located in London, has undergone significant improvements since its last inspection. The school is now rated as good in overall effectiveness, leadership and management, quality of teaching, personal development, behavior and welfare, and outcomes for pupils. The leadership team, including governors and staff, has worked diligently to enhance the quality of education provided to students. This has resulted in most pupils making strong progress in key areas such as reading, writing, and mathematics, as well as in a variety of other subjects.
Governors play an active role in the school, fulfilling their statutory duties effectively. They regularly visit the school and hold leaders accountable for all aspects of the school’s work. The positive behavior of pupils is evident, as they are respectful, polite, and well-mannered. They understand the school’s rules and learn in a safe and caring environment. Pupils are equipped with the knowledge to keep themselves safe in various situations, including online safety.
The early years provision is also rated as good, with children making strong progress across all areas of learning. They engage in a wide range of stimulating activities that promote their development. The curriculum is designed to foster pupils’ spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development, preparing them well for their future lives. However, there is a need for more challenging work for the most able pupils to ensure they reach their full potential. Additionally, while pupils develop good writing and mathematical skills, they do not consistently apply these skills across different subjects.
To further improve, the school needs to ensure that all pupils, particularly the most able and disadvantaged, are provided with more demanding work. Strengthening the wider curriculum, especially in subjects like science, will help deepen pupils’ learning. Sharing best practices within the school will also ensure that pupils regularly apply their mathematical and writing skills across various subjects.
The quality of teaching, learning, and assessment is generally good, with classrooms being well-organized and stimulating. Teachers have high expectations for pupil behavior, which contributes to a positive learning environment. The teaching of phonics is effective, and pupils are encouraged to read regularly, fostering a love for reading. Writing is taught well, with teachers providing clear models and ambitious vocabulary for pupils to use. However, there are instances where the most able pupils are not sufficiently challenged, which can affect their progress.
Pupils’ personal development and welfare are prioritized, with opportunities for them to take on leadership roles and participate in school governance. They are knowledgeable about different forms of bullying and feel safe at school. The school promotes physical and mental well-being through various activities and clubs.
Overall, the school has made commendable progress since the last inspection, with strong leadership, effective teaching, and a supportive environment for pupils. Continued focus on challenging the most able pupils and enhancing the curriculum will further contribute to the school’s success. The school community is engaged, and there are strong links with parents, ensuring a collaborative approach to education. The positive outcomes for pupils reflect the school’s commitment to providing a high-quality education.
