St John’s CofE Primary School Mosley Common has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 14 and 15, 2023. The school is characterized by a friendly and caring environment where pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, feel happy and safe. Positive relationships between pupils and staff contribute to a supportive atmosphere, ensuring that pupils know they can seek help with any concerns. The school has effective measures in place to address bullying, with staff responding promptly to any incidents.
The leadership team has a clear vision encapsulated in the motto aim high – believe – achieve, which is reflected in their high expectations for all students. Pupils are encouraged to strive for their best, demonstrating a strong work ethic and positive attitudes towards learning. The behavior of pupils is commendable, as they adhere to the school's established norms, creating calm and purposeful classrooms conducive to learning.
The curriculum at St John’s is well-structured and ambitious, designed to ensure that teachers are clear about the knowledge and skills pupils need to acquire. Leaders prioritize building on prior knowledge, fostering a love of learning from an early age. Subject leaders are knowledgeable and collaborate with teachers to deliver the curriculum effectively. Most lessons are well-executed, allowing pupils to consolidate their learning. However, there are instances where some pupils struggle to recall key content from previous years, indicating a need for more opportunities to revisit and reinforce past learning.
Reading is a central focus of the curriculum, with leaders creating engaging reading areas to promote a love for reading among pupils. Older students express enthusiasm for the stories they share, recognizing the importance of reading widely. The school has implemented a new phonics scheme to enhance reading outcomes, and staff are receiving training to ensure effective delivery. While most staff are adapting well, some inconsistencies in phonics instruction remain, which can hinder the progress of a few pupils in becoming fluent readers.
The school effectively identifies and supports pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they receive timely and high-quality assistance. Adaptations to the curriculum are made as necessary, allowing these pupils to access the same learning opportunities as their peers. The overall atmosphere in the school is positive, with pupils demonstrating kindness and respect towards one another. Instances of off-task behavior are managed swiftly, minimizing disruptions to learning.
Leaders have also prioritized personal development, focusing on mental health and well-being. Pupils learn to respect differences and appreciate diverse cultures, preparing them for life in modern Britain. The governing body works collaboratively with leaders to promote the well-being of the school community, considering the impact of decisions on staff workload. Staff express high levels of job satisfaction, feeling valued and supported in their roles.
The safeguarding arrangements at St John’s are robust, with a strong culture of safety embedded within the school. Staff receive regular training and are well-informed about their responsibilities. Leaders maintain strong relationships with families and refer concerns to external agencies when necessary. Pupils are educated about potential risks, including online safety, through the curriculum.
To further improve, the school should ensure that pupils have ample opportunities to recap and recall important learning from previous years. Additionally, leaders must address the inconsistencies in phonics instruction to enhance reading fluency among all pupils. Overall, St John’s CofE Primary School Mosley Common continues to provide a high-quality education, fostering a nurturing environment where pupils can thrive academically and personally.
