Newland St John’s Church of England Academy, located in Hull, East Yorkshire, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on June 13 and 14, 2023. The school is committed to its values of living together, learning together, and shining together, which are actively upheld by both pupils and staff. The positive behavior of students is evident, as they are respectful and engaged in their learning. The atmosphere within the school is calm, and pupils demonstrate a strong desire to succeed academically. In instances of negative behavior, including bullying, staff are quick to intervene, ensuring that pupils feel safe and supported.
The leadership team at Newland St John’s is ambitious, aiming for all pupils to acquire the necessary knowledge for their future educational endeavors. Although academic outcomes in 2022 did not meet these ambitions, the school has shown resilience, particularly in welcoming new pupils from diverse backgrounds. These students receive tailored support to help them integrate and thrive within the school community. The school fosters a nurturing environment where all pupils feel valued and included, contributing to a diverse and vibrant community.
The trust overseeing the school plays an active role in its leadership, promoting stability and continuous improvement following previous changes in staff and leadership. Staff members report feeling supported and appreciated, with leaders prioritizing their well-being and streamlining processes to reduce workload. The early years provision is strong, with a focus on developing language and social skills, ensuring that children are confident and independent as they transition to Year 1.
Reading is a key priority, with a structured phonics program in place that begins in Reception. Staff are well-trained to deliver these sessions effectively, and additional support is provided for pupils who require it. The mathematics curriculum is also well-structured, allowing pupils to build on their previous learning and understand expectations clearly. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in foundation subjects like geography and design technology, where the curriculum delivery is inconsistent and lacks clarity regarding the knowledge pupils should acquire.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are identified promptly, and the school ensures they receive the necessary support to access the same curriculum as their peers. Nonetheless, communication regarding individual targets for these pupils could be improved to ensure that all staff are aligned in their approach to teaching.
The school promotes inclusivity and celebrates diversity, teaching pupils values such as forgiveness and compassion. However, there is a need for a more comprehensive approach to educating pupils about different family types and relationships to better prepare them for life in modern Britain. Safeguarding measures are effective, with a strong culture of vigilance among staff, ensuring that pupils know how to seek help if needed.
To enhance its effectiveness, the school should focus on clearly defining the curriculum across all subjects, ensuring that learning activities are aligned with intended outcomes. Additionally, it should address the gaps in knowledge regarding family diversity and relationships, equipping pupils with the understanding necessary for their future. By continuing to build on its strengths and addressing these areas for improvement, Newland St John’s Church of England Academy can further enhance the educational experience it offers to its pupils.
