St John’s Church of England Primary School in Abram has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 21 and 22, 2023. The commitment of the staff and leaders to ensure that pupils achieve their full potential is evident throughout the school. The staff's dedication extends to all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Pupils are encouraged to meet high expectations, and they generally perform well across various subjects, preparing them effectively for the next stages of their education.
The school fosters a welcoming and nurturing environment, which pupils appreciate. They express pride in their school and enjoy the engaging curriculum that stimulates their curiosity. For instance, early years pupils were particularly excited about a visit from insects, showcasing the hands-on learning experiences provided. The Peace Garden is a favorite spot for pupils, offering them a tranquil space to reflect or converse with friends.
High expectations for behavior are upheld by both staff and pupils, who maintain warm and caring relationships. The Learning Legend award, given by pupils to their peers, promotes a positive atmosphere. Pupils feel secure knowing they can seek help for any concerns, contributing to a safe school environment. Respect is a core value, and any instances of bullying are effectively addressed by the leadership team.
The school’s ambitious ‘Dream’ curriculum is designed to cater to all pupils, including those with SEND. Leaders have carefully structured the curriculum to ensure that key knowledge is imparted logically. However, as the curriculum is relatively new, some pupils have not had enough opportunities to revisit previous learning, which can hinder their ability to connect different subjects and themes.
Teachers generally utilize the curriculum to create lessons that facilitate learning. They conduct assessments to gauge pupil understanding and provide additional support when necessary. Nonetheless, in a few subjects, the activities may not fully align with the intended learning outcomes, which can impede pupil progress.
Leaders are proactive in identifying pupils with SEND and provide effective support within lessons, ensuring these pupils can access the same curriculum as their peers. This approach has led to positive outcomes for pupils with SEND across various subjects.
Reading is a focal point of the curriculum, with significant investment in creating a literature-rich environment. Pupils express enthusiasm for the books they read, and early years children receive strong phonics instruction, laying a solid foundation for their reading skills. Staff are well-trained to support pupils’ reading development, ensuring they master sounds before progressing.
Pupils demonstrate good concentration and adherence to school rules, contributing to a productive learning environment. They engage actively in lessons, which allows for uninterrupted learning. The school promotes values of tolerance and respect, with pupils gaining an understanding of British values through practical experiences, such as visiting a mock polling station.
Trustees, governors, and leaders possess a thorough understanding of the school’s needs and priorities, fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Staff feel valued and supported, contributing to a strong team spirit within the school.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of vigilance regarding pupil safety. Staff are well-trained and responsive to any concerns, ensuring timely referrals to external agencies when necessary. Pupils receive education on personal safety, including safe internet usage.
To enhance the school further, leaders should focus on embedding the new curriculum to ensure all pupils have ample opportunities to build their knowledge over time. Additionally, teachers should be supported in planning activities that effectively promote intended learning outcomes in all subjects.
