St John's Catholic Junior School, located in Bebington, Wirral, has recently undergone an inspection on October 4 and 5, 2023, and has been rated as good in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. The school has maintained this good rating since its previous inspection in July 2018.
Pupils at St John's enjoy their time at school, feeling welcomed and supported by both staff and peers. The positive relationships foster a safe environment where students feel confident to express their concerns. The school sets high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, and students strive to meet these standards. During lessons, most pupils demonstrate hard work and enthusiasm, contributing to their overall success.
The school also emphasizes high standards of behaviour, with pupils eager to follow instructions and treat each other with respect. This respectful atmosphere promotes effective learning. Additionally, pupils appreciate the variety of extracurricular activities available, such as football and dance, and they value opportunities to take on leadership roles within the school community.
St John's has developed a comprehensive and ambitious curriculum that is well-structured to meet the diverse needs of its pupils. The curriculum is designed to ensure that essential knowledge is taught in a logical sequence, which aids teachers in creating effective learning activities. Most subjects are delivered effectively, with teachers receiving appropriate training to enhance their instructional skills. However, there are instances in a few subjects where the chosen teaching methods do not fully support all pupils in grasping the intended curriculum.
Teachers routinely assess pupils' understanding of prior content, allowing them to address misconceptions promptly. This approach helps students build a solid foundation of knowledge over time. The school prioritizes reading instruction, ensuring that staff consistently implement a phonics program that supports struggling readers. Pupils are provided with books that match their reading levels, facilitating their progress toward becoming fluent readers. Older students express enthusiasm for the books they read, and the school offers a diverse selection of high-quality texts to further enrich their vocabulary and foster a love for reading.
The school has effective systems in place to identify and support pupils with special educational needs. Staff generally tailor their teaching to meet these pupils' needs, although there are occasions when adaptations are insufficient, hindering some students' learning experiences.
St John's also focuses on the broader development of its pupils, regularly adapting programs to cater to individual needs. Pupils learn about various cultures and values, promoting respect for diversity. The school environment is calm and orderly, with established routines that encourage responsible behaviour. Pupils engage positively with guest speakers and participate in trips that enhance their learning experiences.
Governors are well-informed about the school's priorities and provide appropriate support and challenge. The school actively engages with parents, keeping them informed about their children's learning and encouraging their involvement. Staff well-being is considered in decision-making, contributing to a positive work environment where teachers feel valued and enjoy their roles.
The safeguarding arrangements at St John's are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. The inspection highlighted areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that all staff consistently select appropriate learning activities and adapt their teaching for pupils with special educational needs. Overall, St John's Catholic Junior School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive community for its pupils.
