St James Roman Catholic Primary School in Petts Wood, Orpington, Kent, has been rated as outstanding in its recent inspection conducted by Ofsted on November 2 and 3, 2021. This was the first routine inspection since the school opened as an academy, having previously been judged outstanding before its conversion. The school serves children aged 5 to 11 and has a total enrollment of 218 pupils. The leadership team, headed by Headteacher Lisa Weeks and Chair of Trustees Mary Hutchinson, has established a strong educational environment where pupils thrive.
Pupils at St James arrive at school eager to learn and engage with their peers and teachers. The school fosters a culture of respect and safety, ensuring that all students feel comfortable discussing their concerns with adults. The staff have implemented effective measures to prevent bullying, creating a supportive atmosphere for all students. The curriculum is broad and ambitious, providing a wealth of activities that encourage collaboration and independent learning. Reception children are particularly enthusiastic about the diverse range of experiences available to them.
Teachers at St James demonstrate secure subject knowledge and maintain high expectations for their students. They work diligently to ensure that pupils produce quality work across all subjects, fostering a genuine thirst for knowledge. The school emphasizes the importance of educational experiences beyond the classroom, organizing regular trips and developing a forest school program that all pupils can access. The school garden is a source of pride for students, who actively participate in its upkeep and enjoy the responsibilities that come with it.
The curriculum is carefully sequenced and ambitious, with thoughtful connections made between subjects. For instance, lessons on Ancient Egypt are linked to geography, allowing pupils to understand the context of their learning. Leaders continuously seek to improve the curriculum, ensuring it reflects modern British life and engages students in meaningful ways. Pupils express their learning through various mediums, including art, and are well-versed in democratic principles, often referencing their visits to the Houses of Parliament.
Reading is a particular strength of the school, with pupils eager to discuss their favorite books and authors. The phonics program in Reception is engaging, and reading routines in Years 1 and 2 are well-established, ensuring that no pupil falls behind. Individual reading sessions help identify areas for improvement, and books are matched to each child's needs, fostering confident and fluent readers.
The school also prioritizes the personal development of its pupils, teaching them about relationships and celebrating diversity. Reception children are integrated into the school community, preparing them well for their transition to Year 1. Leaders ensure that older pupils are equipped for secondary school and the wider world.
Parents express overwhelming positivity about the school, appreciating the transparent handling of concerns by leaders. The governing body is actively involved, supporting and challenging the leadership team effectively. Staff feel supported and valued, with their well-being prioritized by school leaders.
The safeguarding arrangements at St James are robust, with a strong culture of safeguarding evident throughout the school. Staff are well-trained and aware of their responsibilities, ensuring that pupils are protected and supported. The school collaborates effectively with local agencies to provide the best support for families.
Overall, St James Roman Catholic Primary School exemplifies excellence in education, demonstrating outstanding practices in teaching, leadership, and community engagement.
