St John’s Church of England Primary School in Hindley Green has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 2 and 3, 2023. The school is characterized by a caring and supportive environment where pupils feel safe and happy, fostering a positive attitude towards learning. The leadership team has high expectations for all students, which is reflected in the achievements of pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Parents and carers appreciate the support their children receive, contributing to a strong community spirit.
Pupils are taught the values of tolerance and equality, which helps them to respect and understand differences among their peers. The school promotes kindness and good behavior, with a clear stance against bullying. Pupils are confident that any issues will be addressed promptly by staff, ensuring a harmonious school atmosphere. The learning experience is enriched through various trips and activities, such as residential visits and performances, which pupils find enjoyable and memorable. Older students take on leadership roles by organizing games for younger peers, fostering a sense of responsibility and community.
The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, ensuring that there is something for every pupil. Popular clubs include martial arts and swimming, which contribute to the overall development of students. The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, with leaders carefully considering the knowledge and skills pupils need to acquire. Most subjects are effectively taught, allowing pupils to build on their previous learning. However, there are a few subjects where the curriculum delivery could be clearer, which may hinder some pupils' learning experiences.
Teachers generally demonstrate confidence and expertise in delivering the curriculum, regularly checking pupils' understanding and adapting lessons accordingly. Reading is prioritized, with pupils encouraged to read widely. The phonics program is well-designed, providing a strong foundation for early readers. However, there are instances where some staff may not implement the phonics program as effectively as intended, which can affect the progress of certain pupils.
Leaders are proactive in identifying and supporting pupils with additional needs, ensuring they have access to the same ambitious curriculum as their peers. The school maintains a calm and orderly environment, with pupils following established routines that contribute to a positive learning atmosphere. Disruptions to learning are rare, allowing for a focused educational experience.
Pupils are encouraged to participate in various aspects of school life, such as electing school council members and taking on office duties, which helps them develop independence and responsibility. The leadership team receives appropriate support and challenge from trustees and governors, fostering a positive working environment for staff. Most staff feel supported in managing their workload and well-being.
The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place, with a strong culture of safety. Staff receive regular training to recognize signs of potential harm, and strong links with external partners ensure that pupils receive necessary support. Pupils are educated on safety relevant to their community, including water safety and traffic awareness.
To improve further, the school needs to finalize its curriculum planning in a few subjects to ensure clarity in teaching content and sequence. Additionally, some staff require further training to implement the phonics program effectively. Overall, St John’s Church of England Primary School continues to provide a good educational experience for its pupils, with a strong emphasis on community, support, and achievement.
