St John the Evangelist CofE Primary School in Macclesfield has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on July 13 and 14, 2023. The school is characterized by a positive atmosphere where pupils, parents, carers, and staff express pride in being part of the community. Students in both the main school and early years demonstrate enjoyment in learning and feel secure in their environment. Feedback from parents highlights the school as a lovely place with dedicated teachers and happy children.
Pupils report that staff are attentive to their mental health and well-being, as well as their academic progress. They trust the adults in the school to address any concerns, and leaders respond promptly to any instances of unkindness or bullying. The school maintains high expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum is designed to support achievement across various subjects, and pupils exhibit good behavior both in lessons and throughout the school.
Students take on responsibilities with enthusiasm, such as serving as house captains and forest rangers. During playtimes, they engage in enjoyable activities together, with older pupils looking after younger ones. The school offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including art, science, and choir, and pupils actively participate in sports competitions and local music events.
The leadership team has developed a comprehensive curriculum that considers the needs of mixed-age classes. In most subjects, clear learning objectives are established, allowing teachers to effectively plan their lessons. The foundation for learning is laid in the Reception class, where staff utilize various resources to enhance vocabulary and communication skills. This preparation ensures that children are ready for the challenges of Year 1.
While most subjects show strong consolidation of learning, there are a few areas where pupils do not have sufficient opportunities to revisit previous knowledge, which can hinder deeper understanding. The reading curriculum is well-structured, with staff trained to teach phonics effectively. Pupils express enthusiasm for reading and receive additional support if they struggle to keep pace with their peers.
Mathematics instruction is a notable strength, with pupils enjoying lessons and achieving well. The curriculum is well understood by staff, and pupils are taught essential mathematical concepts and problem-solving skills. Teachers are adept at identifying gaps in knowledge and adjusting lessons accordingly.
The school has effective safeguarding measures in place, fostering a strong culture of safety. Staff receive regular training, and processes are in place to address any concerns regarding pupil welfare. Pupils learn about potential risks, including those related to online safety, through the curriculum.
Despite the school's strengths, there are areas for improvement. Some pupils experience gaps in knowledge from previous years, which can affect their learning depth. Leaders are encouraged to ensure that teachers provide more opportunities for pupils to recall and consolidate their learning. Additionally, a small group of pupils are persistently absent, impacting their educational progress. Leaders are working with families to improve attendance.
Overall, St John the Evangelist CofE Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils, preparing them well for their future endeavors. The school community is engaged and positive, contributing to a nurturing environment conducive to learning.
