St John and St James CofE Primary School, located in Edmonton, London, has received a positive inspection report, reflecting its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on November 17 and 18, 2021, and highlighted several strengths of the school, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision, all rated as good. This marks a significant improvement from the previous inspection, which rated the school as requiring improvement.
The school fosters a supportive and engaging learning environment where pupils feel a strong sense of belonging. Staff are dedicated to ensuring that students enjoy their learning experiences and are happy at school. High expectations are set for all pupils, and the support provided helps them achieve well academically. The positive behavior of pupils is evident, as they are respectful, responsible, and eager to learn. They appreciate the recognition they receive for their efforts, such as certificates and house points, which further motivates them.
The curriculum is well-structured, allowing pupils to build on their prior knowledge effectively. For instance, in geography, Year 5 pupils demonstrated their ability to read maps accurately due to the foundational skills they developed in earlier lessons. In the early years, children are introduced to essential vocabulary that prepares them for future learning. Staff regularly assess pupils' understanding and address any gaps in knowledge, ensuring that all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, receive the support they need to succeed.
Reading is a strong focus at the school, with a systematic phonics program in place from the start of Reception. This approach helps children develop their early reading skills effectively. The school also collaborates with parents and professionals to support pupils who may struggle with reading. However, there is a noted concern regarding some key stage 1 pupils taking home books that do not align closely with the letter sounds they have learned, which can hinder their reading fluency and accuracy.
Pupils are encouraged to engage in personal development through various programs, including personal, social, health, and economic education. They learn about diverse family structures and participate in extracurricular activities, with many pupils, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds, taking part in clubs such as dance and cooking. The school promotes a sense of responsibility towards the community and the environment, exemplified by initiatives to support schools in other countries.
The leadership team is effective in preparing pupils for the next stages of their education. Staff feel supported and valued, particularly through collaborative teaching and reflective discussions with school leaders. The safeguarding measures in place are robust, ensuring that pupils' safety and well-being are prioritized. Staff are well-trained and maintain strong relationships with pupils and their families, fostering a safe and trusting environment.
Overall, St John and St James CofE Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and nurturing environment for its pupils. The school has made significant strides since its last inspection, and with continued focus on aligning reading materials with pupils' learning, it is well-positioned for future success.
