Whitwick St John The Baptist Church of England Primary School has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 27 and 28 June 2023. The school provides a nurturing and supportive environment where pupils thrive. The leadership team and staff share a clear vision for the school, encapsulated in the motto ‘grow, achieve, bloom, repeat.’ This vision is underpinned by six core Christian values that guide the behavior and actions of the pupils. The students demonstrate a strong understanding of diversity and equality, with one pupil articulating the importance of everyone having the opportunity to be themselves.
Teachers at Whitwick have high expectations for all pupils, fostering an atmosphere of excitement and engagement in learning. Instances of poor behavior are rare, and pupils express feeling safe within the school environment. They are aware of the support available to them, including talking to teachers or utilizing classroom resources like worry boxes and worry monsters to address their concerns. The school encourages pupils to take on responsibilities, such as team captains and reading buddies, and promotes participation in various sports and community events, including an active school choir.
The curriculum at Whitwick is ambitious and well-structured, developed collaboratively with experts and other schools. Subject leaders have clearly defined what pupils should learn, ensuring a coherent progression of knowledge from early years through to key stage three. However, some areas of the curriculum are still in the early stages of implementation, and leaders are focused on refining these further. In a few subjects, the curriculum plans do not yet specify the knowledge required at each stage, which can hinder the depth of understanding and skill development over time.
Pupils show a keen interest in reading, with ample opportunities to engage with texts in classrooms and a well-resourced library. The teaching of phonics is effective, enabling pupils to learn sounds and blending techniques accurately. Regular assessments ensure that those who struggle with reading receive timely support. In mathematics, teachers present new concepts clearly and encourage collaborative discussions among pupils, reinforcing their understanding through revisiting key topics.
Art lessons at Whitwick expose pupils to a variety of artists and styles, fostering creativity and experimentation. Teachers routinely assess pupils' retention of knowledge across all subjects, employing questioning techniques that help students recall essential facts and build on their existing knowledge. The early years curriculum encourages children to connect new learning to their interests and experiences.
The school is committed to inclusivity, ensuring that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive appropriate support to access the curriculum alongside their peers. Positive attitudes are evident in lessons, with pupils actively engaged and adhering to established routines that promote good behavior. Attendance rates have improved significantly due to the support provided to those with lower attendance.
The personal, social, and health education curriculum is well-planned, equipping pupils with the knowledge to stay safe and healthy. The school’s Christian ethos and PSHE program contribute to the development of mature attitudes, preparing pupils for their future educational journeys and lives in modern society. Staff express pride in their work environment, noting that leaders are considerate of their well-being. The governing body plays an active role in supporting and challenging school leaders to enhance the curriculum for all pupils. Parents have expressed positive feedback regarding the school’s offerings.
The safeguarding arrangements at Whitwick are effective, with a strong culture of safety established. Leaders ensure that staff are trained to identify risks and follow clear procedures to support pupils in need. The school maintains thorough checks on staff and visitors, and pupils are educated on safety, including online safety. Overall, while the school excels in many areas, there is a need for continued refinement of the curriculum to ensure all knowledge components are clearly defined and sequenced.
