St John’s CofE School is recognized as a good school, providing a warm and welcoming environment for its pupils. The school emphasizes respectful relationships, ensuring that students feel safe and supported. Its core values of faith, strength, compassion, wisdom, and hope are integrated into all aspects of school life. Pupils are encouraged to express their concerns to staff, who are committed to taking effective action. The school offers a rich array of opportunities for students to explore and develop their talents and interests.
The staff at St John’s maintain high expectations for all pupils, fostering a broad and stimulating curriculum that meets national standards. Inclusion is a fundamental principle of the school’s educational approach, with teachers delivering lessons in clear, manageable steps. This method allows all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, to grasp new concepts effectively. The behavior of pupils is commendable, both in lessons and throughout the school, as they engage enthusiastically in their learning and contribute positively to school life. Many students take on responsibilities such as prefects, eco-warriors, music ambassadors, and representatives on the school council.
The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, designed to build knowledge progressively from early years through to Year 6. Pupils have regular opportunities to revisit and reinforce their learning. In most subjects, students confidently apply their knowledge and skills. The school has cultivated a positive learning environment that is appreciated by both staff and pupils. Teachers create purposeful activities that help students make connections in their learning. For instance, Year 1 pupils learn about Aboriginal painting and apply techniques such as dot painting and pointillism in their artwork.
However, in some subjects, recent changes to the curriculum have not yet been fully integrated, leading to gaps in foundational knowledge for some pupils. This can affect their confidence in applying what they have learned. The school prioritizes reading from the early years, providing regular opportunities for practice and ensuring that staff are well-trained to support all pupils, including those with SEND. The focus on reading helps students develop fluency and confidence, and the school promotes a love of reading through diverse and high-quality texts.
St John’s has effective systems in place to identify and support pupils with SEND, ensuring they receive the necessary adaptations to the curriculum. The school collaborates closely with external agencies to provide pastoral support when needed. Pupils with SEND achieve well, and the overall atmosphere in the school is one of politeness, curiosity, and respect for different perspectives.
The school offers an extensive curriculum for wider development, with numerous clubs and activities available. Music plays a significant role, with all pupils learning instruments such as the ukulele and recorder, and participating in performances. Attendance is a priority, and the school actively works with parents and external agencies to address any concerns.
Governors maintain effective oversight of the school’s work and share its high aspirations for pupil success. Parents express overwhelming positivity regarding their children’s experiences at the school. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school has a clear understanding of its strengths and areas for improvement, with a commitment to embedding recent curriculum changes and enhancing staff expertise for confident implementation.