St James’ Church of England Primary School is recognized as a good school, providing a positive and engaging environment for its pupils. The school fosters a friendly atmosphere where students are eager to learn and teachers maintain high expectations. The strong relationships among staff, pupils, and parents contribute to a respectful and supportive community. Leaders at the school ensure that pupils exhibit good behavior and develop positive attitudes towards learning, encouraging them to strive for excellence through various reward systems. The school prioritizes the safety and well-being of its students, with parents noting that incidents of bullying are rare due to the prompt action taken by leaders when issues arise.
The school is committed to inclusivity, ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, are engaged in learning. Teachers effectively plan activities that cater to diverse learning needs, utilizing outdoor resources to enhance the educational experience. Leaders are aware of the areas that require improvement and are focused on ensuring that pupils achieve at least as well as their peers nationally. The school prepares its students well for the next stages of their education, particularly in reading, writing, and mathematics.
Leadership at St James’ is strong, with the headteacher and deputy headteacher driving improvements in academic performance. Over time, the school has seen progress in key areas, and leaders are determined to continue this upward trajectory. They closely monitor the effectiveness of teaching and learning, making necessary adjustments to enhance pupil outcomes. The school has implemented a systematic approach to phonics instruction, ensuring that children develop strong reading skills from an early age. Staff collaboration is evident, with teachers sharing effective practices to support pupil learning.
The school’s curriculum is evolving, with leaders clearly identifying subjects that require further development. While there is a strong understanding of history among pupils, science instruction needs to be strengthened to ensure that students retain scientific knowledge as effectively as they do historical facts. Leaders are focused on enhancing the curriculum across all subjects, ensuring that thorough plans are in place to guide teaching and learning.
Pupils at St James’ enjoy a variety of enrichment activities that complement their academic learning. They engage in lessons that allow them to work collaboratively and conduct their own research, fostering a sense of independence and resilience. The school emphasizes the importance of community involvement, encouraging pupils to participate in fundraising and charitable activities, which helps them understand their role as responsible citizens.
Staff well-being is a priority for school leaders, who are mindful of workload and provide support to ensure a positive working environment. The governing body collaborates effectively with school leaders to establish a clear vision for the curriculum and overall school improvement. Safeguarding measures are robust, with leaders knowing their families well and ensuring that pupils receive the necessary support. Staff are well-trained in safeguarding practices, and pupils are educated on how to stay safe, particularly in the digital realm.
In summary, St James’ Church of England Primary School is a good school that prioritizes the academic and personal development of its pupils. With strong leadership, a commitment to inclusivity, and a focus on continuous improvement, the school is well-positioned to enhance its educational offerings and ensure that all students thrive.
