Royston St John Baptist Church of England Primary School, located in Barnsley, South Yorkshire, underwent an inspection on October 5 and 6, 2022, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has made significant progress since its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management were all rated as good, while early years provision was rated as outstanding.
The school provides a nurturing environment where children are encouraged to develop a love for learning. Strong relationships between staff and pupils foster a supportive atmosphere, and the school is well-integrated into the local community, with established links to the local church. The school emphasizes educational excellence, and leaders have cultivated a culture of high expectations that is reflected in pupils' work and their positive attitudes toward learning. Pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, achieve well across various subjects.
Pupils feel safe and supported in the school, trusting adults and seeking help when needed. Instances of bullying are rare, and when they occur, staff respond promptly to resolve issues. Pupils exhibit good behavior and understand their responsibilities regarding conduct, with older students serving as role models for younger peers.
Reading is a central focus of the curriculum, with children starting to learn phonics as soon as they enter Reception. Staff effectively teach phonics, and pupils read daily, with books tailored to their abilities. The school ensures access to a diverse range of quality texts, and pupils express enthusiasm for reading, often discussing their favorite authors.
The curriculum is thoughtfully designed to build on prior knowledge, with clear sequencing from Reception to Year 6. In subjects like science and history, pupils demonstrate good recall of previously learned material. However, some pupils struggle with letter formation in writing, which affects their ability to express their thoughts efficiently.
In English and mathematics, subject leaders utilize assessment data to identify areas for improvement, although this practice is less developed in some foundation subjects. Over time, pupil behavior has improved significantly, with inspectors noting that pupils are polite and well-mannered, listening attentively in lessons and moving calmly around the school.
The school is inclusive, with leaders quickly identifying the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. These pupils receive effective support, including additional adult assistance and resources, enabling them to achieve alongside their peers. The early years curriculum is engaging and supportive, helping children develop communication skills and a broad vocabulary.
The school offers various after-school activities, promoting respect and tolerance among pupils. They engage in community service, such as collaborating with local authorities to encourage walking to school. The governing body possesses a wealth of experience and works closely with school leaders, who have a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement.
Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to recognize and report concerns. Leaders respond swiftly to safeguarding issues, ensuring pupils feel safe and know how to raise concerns. The school maintains rigorous employment checks for staff, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
To improve further, the school should focus on enhancing letter formation in writing and developing assessment practices in certain subjects to better gauge pupil knowledge and understanding. Overall, Royston St John Baptist Church of England Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education in a supportive and inclusive environment.
