St James’s Hatcham Church of England Primary School in New Cross, London, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 4 and 5, 2023. The school is characterized by a warm and friendly environment where pupils feel safe and valued. They appreciate the support available for their mental health and emotional well-being, with staff trained to address any concerns. The school promotes a culture of respect and kindness, and pupils are encouraged to celebrate their differences. The leadership team has high expectations for all students, aiming for them to realize their unique potential and enjoy a fulfilling life.
Pupils achieve well, particularly in English and mathematics, and the school is actively working to extend these successes across the entire curriculum. The staff fosters a respectful atmosphere, and instances of bullying are addressed promptly and effectively. The school emphasizes the importance of understanding the world beyond its walls, engaging pupils in activities such as corresponding with pen pals in Uganda and collaborating on art projects with local university artists.
The curriculum is well-structured and thoughtfully arranged, allowing pupils to reach ambitious learning goals. Teachers demonstrate confidence and expertise in delivering lessons, breaking down complex concepts into manageable parts. This approach supports all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, in effectively following the curriculum. However, there are areas where teaching does not consistently ensure that pupils acquire the essential knowledge needed for future learning, which can hinder their understanding of new concepts.
Leaders utilize assessments effectively to identify gaps in learning, particularly in vocabulary development following the COVID-19 pandemic. They have adapted the curriculum to focus on helping pupils acquire and use subject-specific vocabulary, which has proven successful. For instance, younger children are using terms like location and direction during activities, while older pupils engage with more complex terminology in their studies.
The school prioritizes early reading instruction, investing in a phonics program and training staff to deliver it effectively. Regular assessments help identify pupils who may need additional support, ensuring they can catch up quickly. However, some pupils struggle with blending sounds to read words fluently, indicating a need for more focused practice in this area.
Pupils exhibit good behavior both in and out of lessons, with rare disruptions to learning. They have numerous opportunities to develop leadership skills, such as mentoring younger students and participating in the school council. Educational visits enrich the curriculum and support pupils' broader development, including a residential trip for Year 6 students that fosters teamwork and confidence.
Staff express pride in being part of the St James’s community, appreciating the support from leaders to manage their workload effectively. The school promotes a caring environment where both pupils and adults look after one another.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to recognize signs of potential risks to pupils. New staff undergo thorough safeguarding induction, and the school maintains rigorous checks on adults working with children. Pupils receive comprehensive information on safety, including e-safety and personal safety, ensuring they are well-informed about how to protect themselves.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Leaders should ensure that teaching consistently helps pupils acquire and retain essential knowledge to support their understanding of new concepts. Additionally, reading practice should provide targeted support to help pupils blend sounds effectively for fluent reading. Overall, St James’s Hatcham Church of England Primary School continues to provide a supportive and effective educational environment for its pupils.
