St James Church of England Primary School in Muswell Hill, London, was inspected on 9 and 10 March 2022, receiving an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has a history of strong performance, having been rated outstanding in its previous inspection 14 years ago. The recent inspection reflects the current educational framework and acknowledges the changes that have occurred since the last evaluation.
Pupils at St James are reported to be happy and safe, demonstrating good behavior both in classrooms and during outdoor activities. They are aware that bullying can occur but feel confident that staff will address any concerns promptly. The leadership team is approachable and visible, fostering a supportive environment where every child is known and encouraged to work hard. The curriculum is ambitious, designed to help pupils develop a comprehensive understanding of various subjects, leading to consistent achievement.
The school emphasizes the importance of reading, with leaders investing in staff training and resources to enhance reading instruction. The teaching of early reading is particularly strong, with staff well-versed in phonics and providing appropriate materials that align with students' learning stages. Workshops for parents further support the development of early reading skills. The school also prioritizes the love of reading, with pupils expressing enthusiasm for the books they read and those shared by staff.
St James offers a full range of national curriculum subjects, with leaders clearly identifying key concepts and vocabulary for pupils to learn. The curriculum is well-structured, allowing pupils to revisit and apply their knowledge over time. However, there are areas in the early years where the focus on what children need to know could be sharper, which sometimes limits the depth of understanding in certain activities.
Teachers encourage pupils to reflect on their learning, using assessments to identify areas where students may need additional support. The school effectively supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they can keep pace with their peers through tailored resources and instruction.
Pupils are generally polite and attentive, with staff helping them navigate conflicts when they arise. The leadership team actively promotes personal development, with older pupils demonstrating an understanding of diversity and the importance of various cultural heritages. The curriculum also fosters artistic and cultural skills, with numerous extracurricular opportunities available to all students.
The governing body is engaged and aware of the school's strengths and areas for improvement. Staff members appreciate the support and approachability of the leadership team, feeling valued and trusted in their roles. The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place, with staff trained to recognize and report concerns regarding pupil wellbeing. Leaders collaborate with external agencies to provide necessary support, ensuring pupils are educated about safety and healthy relationships.
To enhance its effectiveness, the school should sharpen its focus on the specific knowledge and skills that children in the early years need to acquire, ensuring that all learning opportunities are maximized. This will help prepare students for a successful transition into Year 1 and beyond. Overall, St James Church of England Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive community for its pupils.
