Terrington St John Primary School, located in Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 25, 2023. The school is characterized by a small and welcoming environment where pupils feel known and valued. Students understand the importance of adhering to school rules, which promotes a culture of readiness, respect, and safety. They demonstrate attentiveness and generally exhibit good behavior during lessons, working diligently to meet the high expectations set by the staff.
During lunchtime, pupils enjoy communal meals and engage in kind play on the playground, with older students often assisting younger ones. Instances of bullying are rare, and students are aware of trusted staff members they can approach with any concerns. The school prioritizes the well-being of its pupils, ensuring they feel happy and safe. For those needing additional support with emotional management, the school provides high-quality pastoral care, including therapy sessions and collaborative activities with students from other schools.
The curriculum at Terrington St John Primary School is well-structured, clearly outlining what pupils need to learn and remember. Leaders are adept at adapting the curriculum to accommodate fluctuating pupil numbers and mixed-age classes, ensuring that all students receive appropriate learning opportunities. Staff have received training to effectively teach most subjects, and where their subject knowledge is strong, they provide clear explanations that facilitate learning. For instance, in religious education, teachers engage pupils with thought-provoking questions, fostering confidence in discussing their learning.
Reading is a key focus at the school, with children beginning their reading journey in Reception. A variety of activities support phonics development, and staff effectively teach phonics to enhance fluency and confidence in reading. Regular assessments help identify areas where pupils struggle, allowing for timely adjustments to the curriculum. However, the phonics program is relatively new, and some staff have not received as much training as others, which can affect the effectiveness of support for pupils facing reading challenges.
The school is committed to inclusivity, with leaders identifying pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and implementing various strategies to support their learning. While most pupils with SEND learn well, there are instances where guidance for staff lacks specificity, hindering the effectiveness of support provided.
Pupils demonstrate respect for diversity, and the curriculum includes lessons on different cultures and backgrounds. Opportunities such as residential trips and educational excursions enrich their learning experiences. The governing body plays an active role in monitoring the school's performance and supporting staff well-being, contributing to a positive working environment.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with staff trained to recognize signs of potential harm and respond promptly to concerns. The pastoral team collaborates closely with families to provide additional support, and the curriculum includes lessons on online safety.
To improve, the school must ensure that all staff receive adequate training and support to teach the planned curriculum effectively, particularly in phonics. Additionally, leaders should provide more precise guidance for supporting pupils with SEND to enhance their learning outcomes. Overall, Terrington St John Primary School continues to provide a nurturing and effective educational environment for its pupils.
