Penistone St John’s Voluntary Aided Primary School, located in South Yorkshire, has recently undergone an inspection on the 2nd and 3rd of July 2024. The school has been rated as good overall, with specific areas such as personal development and early years provision receiving an outstanding rating. The school has a strong Christian ethos, emphasizing kindness and respect among pupils, which contributes to a positive school environment where bullying is reportedly non-existent.
The staff at the school maintain high expectations for pupil behavior, which is evident from the exceptional conduct observed in early years and throughout the school. Pupils are recognized for demonstrating the school’s values through a bead reward system, fostering a sense of pride and achievement among students. The personal development opportunities provided to pupils are extensive, allowing them to explore various interests and talents from an early age. Activities such as singing, arts and crafts, and leadership roles for older pupils are integral to the school’s approach, promoting resilience and ambition.
The curriculum at Penistone St John’s is ambitious, particularly in mathematics, where pupils are encouraged to develop a love for the subject through well-structured learning. The curriculum is designed to break down learning into manageable steps, enabling pupils to grasp essential mathematical concepts effectively. In early years, the curriculum is highly ambitious, ensuring that all children, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, thrive.
While the curriculum in mathematics is well-established, other subjects are still in the process of development. Leaders are aware of the need to continue refining the curriculum to fill any gaps in knowledge that may have arisen from previous frameworks. The school has implemented project weeks to help pupils make connections across subjects, which is beginning to enhance their ability to apply knowledge in new contexts.
Teachers at the school possess strong subject knowledge and benefit from high-quality professional development, which is particularly beneficial for those new to the profession. The early years staff are skilled in creating meaningful interactions with children, fostering an environment conducive to sustained learning. The school’s approach to writing, which includes discussion-based practice, has proven to be effective in enhancing pupils’ writing skills.
The school’s commitment to early reading is evident, with all staff trained to ensure that pupils learn to read effectively. Interventions are promptly implemented for pupils who fall behind, allowing them to catch up quickly. Assessment practices are utilized effectively to monitor pupil progress, with adaptations made for those with special educational needs to ensure equitable access to the curriculum.
Behavior in classrooms is exemplary, with no low-level disruption reported. Relationships between staff and pupils are characterized by respect and kindness, contributing to a positive learning atmosphere. Attendance rates are above average, and leaders actively engage with families to support high attendance levels.
The personal development of pupils is exceptional, with a strong emphasis on respect, responsibility, and active citizenship. Each pupil’s individuality is celebrated, and they are provided with opportunities to understand important values such as equality and democracy. The governing body is actively involved in the school’s progress, providing both support and challenge to ensure continuous improvement.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring that pupils are well-protected. Overall, Penistone St John’s Voluntary Aided Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education, with a focus on personal development and a supportive learning environment. The school is well-positioned to continue its journey of improvement, particularly in further developing its curriculum across all subjects.
