John Harrison Church of England Primary School is a welcoming and friendly institution that embodies its Christian values through its vision, which is well understood and practiced by both staff and pupils. The school has received a good overall effectiveness rating in its recent inspection, with outstanding marks in behavior and attitudes, as well as personal development. The quality of education, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good.
Pupils at the school exhibit exceptional behavior both in the classroom and throughout the school environment. They maintain high expectations for themselves and their peers, consistently striving to meet these standards. The established routines and the school’s ethos contribute to a calm and orderly atmosphere conducive to learning. Pupils take pride in their work and are eager to learn new things, demonstrating a high level of motivation. They look forward to being recognized for their achievements, such as receiving the ‘star of the week’ award during collective worship.
The school offers a wide range of opportunities that support the broader development of its pupils. Leadership skills are fostered through various roles, including pupil ambassadors and school councillors, allowing students to contribute meaningfully to the school community. For instance, they plan and lead collective worship and assist younger pupils during playtimes.
The curriculum at John Harrison Church of England Primary School is ambitious and well-structured, with careful attention given to the knowledge and skills that pupils need to acquire as they progress. Learning is broken down into manageable steps, enabling pupils to apply their knowledge across different subjects. The curriculum effectively meets the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Teachers adapt tasks as necessary to ensure all students can engage with the material.
Recent changes to the teaching of French have enhanced pupils' confidence in speaking, listening, reading, and writing in the language. The phonics program has also evolved, with most pupils quickly mastering the sounds associated with letters. Teachers’ strong subject knowledge allows them to address misconceptions promptly, and there are strategies in place to support pupils who may be at risk of falling behind. Reading is prioritized across the school, with a diverse range of texts linked to the curriculum, and pupils express enjoyment in visiting the newly refurbished library.
In early years, children benefit from well-planned activities that facilitate a smooth transition into the school. Routines are established early, and staff respond sensitively to the needs of the children, promoting discussion and exploration through play. The personal, social, and health education curriculum provides age-appropriate opportunities for pupils to learn about maintaining physical and mental health, as well as understanding fundamental British values.
The governing board has experienced several changes in recent years, and while they are becoming more familiar with their responsibilities, there is still room for improvement in utilizing available information to support strategic decisions. The school’s safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
Overall, John Harrison Church of England Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a positive learning environment. The school is well-regarded by its community, and the leadership is focused on continuous improvement to enhance the educational experience for all pupils.
