St Peter's Church of England Aided Junior School in Farnborough, Hampshire, has received a positive inspection report, reflecting significant improvements since its previous evaluation. The school is characterized by a welcoming and nurturing environment, where the vision of Living life in all its fullness is central to its ethos. Staff members are well-acquainted with pupils and their families, fostering a sense of safety and enjoyment among students. The leadership team has established high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, resulting in strong engagement and commendable academic achievements.
Pupils exhibit good behavior throughout the school, adhering to clear expectations set by the leadership. They are calm and focused during lessons and interact positively during playtime. The school has cultivated strong relationships between adults and pupils, contributing to a supportive atmosphere where bullying is rare and swiftly addressed when it occurs. Additionally, the school offers numerous opportunities for pupils to develop leadership skills through various roles, such as science ambassadors and sports leaders, which enhances the overall school environment.
The curriculum at St Peter's is ambitious and aligned with the school's vision, clearly outlining the essential knowledge and skills required for all pupils. Teachers demonstrate secure subject knowledge, particularly in subjects like art and design and mathematics, and they regularly challenge pupils with tasks that promote understanding. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring consistent delivery of the curriculum across all subjects. Some teachers need to design tasks that reinforce pupils' retention of knowledge, and leaders are actively working to address these inconsistencies.
Reading is a priority within the school, with ample opportunities for pupils to practice and improve their skills. While many pupils are becoming fluent readers, there is a lack of a consistent approach to supporting those in the early stages of reading, which can hinder some pupils from progressing as quickly as they should. Leaders have recognized this issue and are prioritizing improvements in this area.
The school excels in promoting personal development, encouraging pupils to become responsible and caring citizens. Initiatives such as delivering handmade gift parcels and performing in local care homes foster a sense of community and pride among pupils. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including trips to various educational sites and opportunities for residential experiences, enriching the pupils' learning journey.
Leadership and management at St Peter's are strong, with leaders and governors dedicated to continuous improvement. They have established a positive culture where staff feel valued and supported, contributing to high levels of job satisfaction. Parents express appreciation for the school's efforts and the positive impact on their children.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with a strong culture of safety established throughout the school. Leaders ensure that all staff are well-trained and that appropriate checks are conducted on individuals working with children. Pupils are educated on how to keep themselves safe, both online and in the community.
In summary, St Peter's Church of England Aided Junior School has made commendable progress, achieving a good overall effectiveness rating. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in reading support and curriculum consistency, the school is well-positioned to continue its positive trajectory, ensuring that all pupils thrive in a supportive and enriching environment.
