St Peter’s CofE Aided Junior School in Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, has undergone a recent inspection on 8 and 9 May 2024, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school, which is part of The Diocese of Ely Multi-Academy Trust, is led by headteacher Gemma Brown. The inspection highlighted significant improvements since the previous inspection, which rated the school as requiring improvement.
Pupils at St Peter’s enjoy their time at school, thriving in an environment that promotes the school’s core values and Christian ethos. They feel nurtured, encouraged, and safe, which fosters positive friendships and a sense of belonging. The school community embraces diversity, ensuring that every pupil is accepted and valued. The recent curriculum changes have raised aspirations, leading to increased engagement and perseverance among students, who are now more articulate and knowledgeable about their learning.
Behaviour at the school is generally good, with most pupils meeting high expectations. While a small number of pupils may struggle, lessons typically proceed without disruption, and social interactions are respectful and safe. Leadership opportunities are available for pupils, such as roles as ‘playground pals’ and leaders of assemblies, which they value and contribute positively to the school community.
The school has made commendable strides in addressing historical underachievement by redesigning its curriculum to be ambitious for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Teachers have received high-quality training, enabling them to deliver the curriculum effectively. Consequently, a greater number of pupils are now learning more effectively. However, there are still areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that all teaching is precise and that explanations are clear and concise. Some pupils may not secure their learning as deeply as possible due to lengthy or complicated instructions.
Despite these challenges, teachers routinely check pupils’ understanding and adapt their teaching to address any gaps. The curriculum places a strong emphasis on reading, with a well-developed reading scheme that exposes pupils to a variety of ambitious texts. This approach not only enhances their reading skills but also enriches their learning in other subjects. The school is proactive in supporting pupils who struggle with reading, providing targeted interventions that help them become confident and fluent readers.
The school’s high expectations for behaviour are well understood by pupils, contributing to a focused learning environment. Attendance is closely monitored, and the school intervenes promptly to support those who face challenges in attending regularly. Most pupils attend school consistently, which positively impacts their learning.
St Peter’s offers a range of extracurricular activities, although participation can vary among pupils. The school is committed to developing character and instilling core values that promote respect and tolerance. Staff members share the leadership’s determination to ensure all pupils succeed, feeling valued and supported in their professional development.
The school’s safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Moving forward, the school must focus on providing consistent training for teachers to enhance the clarity of their explanations, ensuring that all pupils secure essential knowledge effectively. Overall, St Peter’s CofE Aided Junior School demonstrates a strong commitment to improvement and the well-being of its pupils, creating a positive and nurturing educational experience.
