St James’ CofE Junior School in Forest Gate, London, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 21 and 22, 2023. The school provides a safe and happy environment where pupils are encouraged to work hard. The leadership team has established a clear vision rooted in Christian values, which promotes inclusivity for the diverse community it serves. The core values of care, courtesy, consideration, and cooperation are evident throughout the school, contributing to a positive atmosphere where pupils behave well in lessons and around the school. Instances of bullying are rare and are addressed promptly when they occur.
The curriculum at St James’ is broad and balanced, designed to build complexity over time, ensuring that pupils are well-prepared for their next educational stages. Leaders and staff have a deep understanding of their pupils, allowing them to cater to individual needs, including those of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. These pupils have access to the same rich curriculum as their peers, ensuring inclusivity.
Pupils benefit from a variety of enriching activities, including regular cultural trips and a wide range of clubs that foster new skills such as cooking, fencing, Tai Chi, and crochet. The school has successfully prioritized reading, implementing a well-structured reading curriculum that also supports writing development. Pupils who require additional reading support are quickly identified and receive targeted assistance from trained staff, aided by strong links with the feeder infant school. This collaborative approach helps to promote a love of reading among pupils, who are encouraged to read widely.
Teachers employ effective strategies to help pupils retain knowledge, including careful questioning and revisiting previous learning. They regularly check for understanding and provide constructive feedback, which aids in improving pupils' work. The support for pupils with special educational needs is particularly commendable, with leaders ensuring that their progress is closely monitored to provide appropriate and impactful support.
The school’s behavior management system is clear and aligns with its values, fostering positive interactions among pupils, staff, and visitors. Discriminatory language is not tolerated, and pupils are supportive of their peers from diverse backgrounds. High attendance rates reflect the positive attitudes of pupils and the commitment of leaders to include all students.
Leaders also emphasize the importance of teaching pupils about healthy lifestyles, relationships, and safety, with the personal, social, and health education program addressing these topics appropriately. Assemblies provide opportunities for reflection and consideration of others, while all pupils, including those with special educational needs, are encouraged to participate in various clubs and trips that broaden their experiences.
Governors are well-informed about the school and actively engage with pupils and staff to make informed decisions. Staff feel valued and respected, contributing to a positive working environment. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with leaders prioritizing the safety and well-being of pupils through regular training and vigilance in reporting concerns. Pupils feel secure and know they can approach teachers with any issues.
While the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement. Leaders need to ensure that the important content they wish to be taught is clearly identified, as gaps in knowledge can arise when this is not explicitly communicated. By addressing this, the school can further enhance the educational experience for its pupils. Overall, St James’ CofE Junior School continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing a high-quality education within a supportive and inclusive environment.
