St John and St Francis Church School, located in Bridgwater, Somerset, underwent an inspection on 11 and 12 May 2022, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has made significant improvements since its previous inspection, where it was rated as requiring improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good.
Pupils at the school are encouraged to lead respectful lives, demonstrating understanding and forgiveness towards one another. Instances of bullying are rare, and when they do occur, staff address them effectively. The school fosters strong community ties, with leaders promoting charitable initiatives and providing positive role models for students. Communication and language skills are prioritized, with a focus on building a rich vocabulary. Support for pupils needing assistance with speech is promptly identified, allowing for frequent opportunities for dialogue and active listening among students.
The curriculum is designed to engage pupils through imaginative teaching methods. For instance, Reception Year children recently participated in a virtual trip to Africa, while older students explore local museums and landmarks. A variety of extracurricular clubs, such as the 'history detectives,' enrich the educational experience.
Leaders have dedicated themselves to developing a well-structured curriculum over several years, ensuring that each subject is thoughtfully designed. The curriculum allows pupils to build on their knowledge and vocabulary as they progress through their education. Early reading is supported by a well-organized phonics program, which has been enhanced with the help of a specialist teacher. Most pupils become proficient readers, although some require additional practice to achieve fluency.
Assessment practices are effective in most subjects, enabling teachers to gauge pupils' understanding and tailor their instruction accordingly. However, there are instances where teachers may assume that all pupils grasp key concepts, leading to gaps in knowledge for some. This can hinder pupils' ability to apply their knowledge confidently.
The school is committed to ensuring that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive the same quality of education as their peers. Staff are proactive in identifying and addressing speech and language difficulties from the Reception Year, which contributes to the overall confidence and development of these pupils. The school maintains a robust review process for support plans, involving parents in the process.
Pupils generally exhibit positive attitudes towards their education, concentrating well in lessons. While low-level disruptions are managed effectively, some students miss essential content due to attendance issues. Leaders are actively working with families to improve attendance rates.
Since the last inspection, the school has made notable progress, with staff and parents acknowledging the improvements. Leaders prioritize staff well-being and are mindful of their workload. The governing body is well-informed about the school and its community, aligning with a vision rooted in Christian values.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with leaders demonstrating a strong understanding of local risks and collaborating with partners to support vulnerable families. Staff are vigilant regarding safeguarding issues, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
To further enhance the quality of education, it is recommended that teachers systematically check pupils' understanding to address any gaps in knowledge. This will help ensure that all pupils achieve a secure understanding of key concepts across subjects.
