St John the Baptist Church of England Primary School in Waltham Chase, Southampton, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on March 13 and 14, 2023. The school is known for its supportive environment where pupils feel safe and well cared for. Leaders are attentive to the needs of their students and their families, ensuring that support is tailored to help every child thrive. Pupils express pride in their school and demonstrate enthusiasm for their learning, which is fostered by the high expectations set by the school leaders.
The quality of education provided is commendable, with a broad and ambitious curriculum designed to meet the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum is structured to build on prior knowledge, allowing pupils to progress effectively. However, the implementation of assessment systems to check pupils' understanding is not yet consistent across all subjects, indicating an area for improvement.
Pupils with special educational needs are well supported, with robust systems in place to identify their needs and provide appropriate adaptations. This ensures that they can participate fully in school life and achieve well. Reading is prioritized, with a phonics program introduced in Reception that equips pupils to become confident and fluent readers. The school organizes events to promote reading among families, enhancing the community's engagement with literacy.
In the early years, the curriculum is well-planned, focusing particularly on communication skills. Strong relationships between staff and children are evident, contributing to a positive learning atmosphere. Attendance rates have improved, particularly among disadvantaged groups and pupils with special educational needs, reflecting the school's commitment to supporting all students.
Pupils enjoy learning about diverse cultures and faiths, with opportunities integrated into the curriculum that encourage reflection on their actions and their impact on others. The school’s core values of trust, respect, and friendship are well understood by the pupils, fostering a sense of community and responsibility.
Staff at the school feel valued and supported, appreciating the professional development opportunities provided by the leaders. The governing body plays an active role in supporting the school, ensuring that leaders are held accountable for the educational outcomes of all pupils.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas identified for further improvement. Some new initiatives have not consistently delivered the intended outcomes, suggesting a need for leaders to ensure that policies and practices are effectively implemented. Additionally, there are instances where teachers may lack expertise in certain curriculum areas, which can affect the delivery of content and the building of pupils' prior knowledge. Leaders are encouraged to continue developing teachers' skills to enhance pupil achievement.
Overall, St John the Baptist Church of England Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive environment for all its pupils. The school is well-regarded by parents and the community, and its leaders are dedicated to continuous improvement in teaching and learning practices.
