St John’s Voluntary Aided Church of England Primary School in Lemsford has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 4, 2023. The school is characterized by a warm and friendly atmosphere where pupils feel safe and valued. Relationships between staff and students are secure, fostering an environment of respect and consideration. Pupils express a strong sense of belonging, with older students noting that the school embraces everyone. The high expectations set by leaders and teachers contribute to the positive behavior and attitudes observed among most pupils, although there are instances of occasional disengagement in lessons.
The curriculum at St John’s is broad and engaging, allowing pupils to enjoy various subjects. While most subjects are well-implemented, some are still undergoing changes. Older pupils demonstrate an understanding of their worth and the importance of their opinions, participating in initiatives like the school council and eco-council, which help them grasp British values. The school prepares pupils effectively for their next educational stages.
Leaders have developed a logical curriculum from Reception to Year 6, and teachers generally exhibit strong subject knowledge. They effectively communicate tasks to pupils, who understand expectations and strive to do their best. Teachers monitor pupils’ understanding during lessons, addressing misconceptions promptly. However, in certain subjects, there is room for improvement in skill development and deeper learning. Some pupils do not consistently connect current learning with past knowledge, and the curriculum may not always challenge them sufficiently.
In the early years, children receive a solid foundation, with staff focusing on language development through well-planned activities and interactions. Pupils engage in learning that fosters independence and social skills. Reading is a significant focus, with pupils enjoying a diverse range of books. While younger children learn to read and write from the start, there is a need for more consistent approaches across classes to ensure all pupils develop their reading skills effectively.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive strong support, with skilled adults working one-on-one to help them overcome barriers to learning. Most of these pupils achieve well, contributing to the overall calm and well-behaved atmosphere in the school. Although a few pupils may occasionally lose focus during lessons, they do not disrupt others and are quickly re-engaged.
The school has a new leadership team that has made strides in building positive relationships with stakeholders. Leaders and governors share a unified vision for the school, positively impacting areas identified for development. Staff feel supported in their well-being and workload, and parents express overwhelming positivity towards the school leadership.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with leaders ensuring that all recruitment procedures are followed. Staff are trained to recognize signs of harm and to support pupils in expressing their feelings and concerns. Pupils learn about safety in the community and online, equipping them with skills to navigate difficult situations.
To enhance its effectiveness, the school needs to further develop its curriculum in certain subjects to facilitate secure links with past knowledge and provide consistent challenges for pupils. Additionally, ensuring that all teachers adopt the same approaches in reading instruction will help embed essential knowledge across the board. Overall, St John’s continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
