St John the Baptist Church of England Primary School in Titchfield Common, Fareham, Hampshire, has been inspected and continues to be recognized as a good school. The inspection took place on October 3 and 4, 2023. Pupils express enjoyment in attending the school, feeling happy and safe, and appreciate the engaging teaching methods employed by their educators. The school’s ethos of living, loving, and learning with thankfulness and hope is evident in all activities, and students demonstrate a strong understanding of these values. High aspirations for student achievement are prevalent, and pupils exhibit sensible behavior both in classrooms and throughout the school. Their enthusiasm for lessons fosters positive engagement and strong performance across the curriculum.
During playtimes, students actively participate in various activities, including basketball and skipping games, or enjoy quieter moments in designated areas. The school offers a rich array of extracurricular activities, such as craft, choir, and language clubs, which help nurture students' interests and talents. The inclusive atmosphere is highlighted by older pupils who reflect on their commitment to welcoming newcomers, demonstrating kindness to those from different backgrounds or who are learning English. New students quickly find friends, ensuring they feel integrated into the school community.
The curriculum at St John the Baptist is broad and ambitious, with clearly defined skills and knowledge for each subject. This curriculum is thoughtfully sequenced, allowing for progression from Reception through Year 6. Staff members possess strong subject knowledge and receive support from subject leaders, enabling them to deliver effective teaching. Vocabulary specific to each subject is taught explicitly, and students are encouraged to use this language in their work. The needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are accurately identified, and these students receive consistent support to access the curriculum successfully.
Reception children benefit from well-established routines that help them settle into school life. They engage with language through play, stories, and rhymes, and phonics instruction begins early, fostering fluency and confidence in reading. The school promotes a love of reading, with diverse book collections available to students, enhancing their enjoyment and discovery of literature.
In addition to academic success, the school prioritizes the social and emotional development of its pupils. Some students have gained valuable skills to understand their emotions and behavior, positively impacting their ability to reflect and take responsibility. Leaders plan to extend this approach across all classes, although current record-keeping regarding pupil behavior and well-being could be improved for better analysis and targeted professional development.
Pupils have access to a variety of enriching experiences, including trips that enhance their learning about history and culture. They appreciate the democratic processes within the school, actively participating in decision-making through the school development group. This involvement fosters a sense of pride and responsibility among students.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. However, there is a need for improved systems to record and analyze information about pupils to enhance support. The school is committed to developing staff expertise in emotional regulation strategies, ensuring a consistent approach across all classes. Overall, St John the Baptist Church of England Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a quality education and nurturing environment for its pupils.
