St John’s Church of England Primary School in Crowborough, East Sussex, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on September 12-13, 2019. The school fosters a strong sense of community among pupils, staff, and parents, creating an environment where students feel proud to attend. Relationships within the school are characterized by kindness, care, and support, contributing to a harmonious atmosphere where pupils learn and play together. The school has established high expectations for student behavior and academic achievement, which pupils respond to with maturity and commitment.
A notable feature of the school is its buddy program, where older pupils assist younger ones in acclimating to school life. This initiative not only helps new students learn the rules and routines but also fosters meaningful relationships. During the inspection, it was evident that older pupils took a genuine interest in their younger buddies, engaging with them during lunch and throughout the school day. The school has successfully created an environment where pupils feel safe and supported, with no reported concerns about bullying. Pupils express confidence in the adults at the school, who are quick to address any issues that arise.
The leadership team, including governors, has set ambitious goals for pupil achievement, ensuring that all students receive the best possible education. The headteacher, supported by a dedicated staff, has implemented a well-structured curriculum that challenges pupils across all subjects. In mathematics, for instance, lessons are designed to build on prior knowledge, and teachers demonstrate strong subject expertise, using various resources to enhance understanding. This approach has led to pupils developing a solid foundation in mathematics.
The school’s early reading program is structured to teach phonics systematically, although there is an ongoing effort to refine the organization of reading materials to better align with what pupils are learning in class. While some staff effectively model early reading skills, there is a need for further training to ensure consistency across all adults supporting pupils in this area. In Key Stage 2, pupils emerge as confident readers, inspired by engaging literature introduced by their teachers.
Leaders have also reviewed subjects such as art to strengthen the curriculum, ensuring that pupils build on their previous learning. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including music and sports, as well as residential trips that help develop pupils' confidence and resilience. The special educational needs coordinator is well-informed about the needs of pupils with SEND, ensuring they receive appropriate support and are included in all aspects of school life.
Pupils demonstrate excellent behavior during lessons, showing high levels of concentration and a commitment to their learning. The early years provision is strong, with children quickly settling into routines and engaging enthusiastically in activities designed to develop key skills. The school prioritizes safeguarding, with effective arrangements in place to ensure the safety and well-being of all pupils. Leaders provide comprehensive training for staff, ensuring they are equipped to handle any concerns regarding pupil welfare.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Leaders are working to ensure that reading materials closely match pupils' phonics knowledge and that all staff supporting phonics instruction are adequately trained. Additionally, recent curriculum enhancements need to be fully embedded to ensure that pupils achieve the best possible outcomes across all subjects. Overall, St John’s Church of England Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
