St John's Church of England Primary School in Tunbridge Wells, Kent, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 21 and 22, 2023. The school is characterized by its strong values of honesty, respect, empathy, courage, and inclusivity, which are evident in the daily interactions among staff and pupils. The environment is friendly and nurturing, with high expectations set for pupil behavior and achievement, including for those with special educational needs and disabilities. The behavior of pupils is calm and settled, and they demonstrate politeness and consideration towards one another. Pupils are engaged in their learning and often feel inspired by their teachers.
The school offers numerous opportunities for pupils to explore their interests and talents, including participation in local sports tournaments and taking on leadership roles such as play leaders and house captains. The school magazine, 'The Eagle,' is a testament to the pupils' creativity and is produced entirely by them, showcasing their experiences and achievements.
Pupils feel safe at St John's, with bullying being a rare occurrence. The school prioritizes mental health and well-being, providing high levels of pastoral care, particularly for those with SEND. Inclusion is a fundamental aspect of the school's ethos, and leaders are committed to supporting all pupils effectively.
The curriculum at St John's is broad and ambitious, well-planned across all subjects, including early years education. Leaders ensure that all pupils, including those with SEND, follow the same curriculum, and teachers adapt resources and activities to meet diverse needs. The school has implemented strategies to improve writing outcomes, which have shown positive results, with pupils becoming more confident and accurate in their writing.
Reading is a key focus, with a new phonics program introduced to engage children from the start of Reception. Staff are well-trained in phonics instruction, enabling pupils to become independent readers and writers. The school encourages a love of reading, with pupils selecting books that match their abilities and reading widely.
While personal development is strong, leaders are working to enhance it further by monitoring attendance at after-school clubs, particularly for disadvantaged pupils. The PSHE curriculum addresses important topics such as healthy relationships and diversity, fostering a strong sense of equality among pupils. However, there is recognition that more could be done to learn about the diverse cultures represented in the school community.
Behaviour is generally strong, with established routines and high expectations. Nevertheless, there are occasional instances of unkind behavior, and leaders are aware of the need to ensure that all pupils understand the new approach to managing behavior effectively.
Engagement with staff is a priority for leaders, who focus on well-being and reducing workload. Staff feel valued and are committed to the school community. Governors are actively involved in the school's success, undertaking regular training to fulfill their responsibilities effectively. Parents and carers express appreciation for the positive impact the school has on their children, with many describing it as an excellent school.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of prioritizing child safety. Staff receive regular training to identify and report concerns, and leaders work closely with external partners to provide support for pupils and families. Overall, St John's Church of England Primary School continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing a high-quality education and a supportive environment for all its pupils.
