St James Church of England Primary Academy, located in Longdon, Rugeley, Staffordshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on July 9, 2024. The head of school, Sam Hewkin, leads this institution, which is part of St Chad’s Academies Trust. The trust is overseen by CEO Sarah Cockshott and a board of trustees chaired by Anthony Orlik, with Chris Dobson serving as the executive principal responsible for this school and another.
The school is characterized by a welcoming atmosphere where pupils are eager to attend. Staff members are attentive to the individual needs of students, fostering a sense of safety and belonging. The supportive environment is further enhanced by the presence of play ambassadors who assist younger children, demonstrating a strong culture of care and inclusivity among pupils. This nurturing approach is particularly evident in how students support their peers, especially those with additional needs.
Behavior at the school is commendable, with pupils displaying a clear understanding of right and wrong. The core values of trust, love, honesty, respect, friendship, and perseverance are integral to the school culture, guiding interactions and promoting a positive learning environment. The school aims for all pupils to achieve their best academically and personally, preparing them for future educational endeavors.
St James Academy places a strong emphasis on reading, beginning as soon as children enter the school. Staff effectively teach phonics, resulting in most pupils reading at or above their age level. Older students enjoy selecting books that match their learning stage, which fosters a love for reading. The curriculum is designed to revisit prior learning, although some subjects require further development in this area to ensure consistent application of knowledge across different contexts.
While the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement. In certain subjects, the approach to revisiting essential knowledge is not as well established, which can hinder pupils' ability to make connections between different topics. The school is actively working to enhance staff training and pedagogical approaches to align with current research, ensuring that all staff implement effective curriculum delivery and assessment strategies.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are promptly identified and receive tailored support, leading to their successful achievement. The school’s ethos is evident in lessons, assemblies, and the broader curriculum, promoting a calm and orderly environment conducive to learning. Incidents of poor behavior are rare, and pupils treat each other and staff with respect.
Beyond academics, the school offers a variety of after-school clubs, allowing pupils to engage in extracurricular activities and develop leadership skills through the school council. These experiences contribute to their understanding of democracy and responsibility. Frequent school trips and guest speakers enrich the curriculum, exposing pupils to diverse perspectives and enhancing their awareness of the wider world.
Leadership at St James Academy is strong, with dedicated leaders prioritizing the needs of pupils. The support from the trust reflects similar values, and governors are well-informed, providing constructive challenge. Parents hold the school in high regard, appreciating the quality of care and education provided. The collaborative efforts of staff, parents, and the community contribute to the school’s success, creating an environment where all pupils can thrive. The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, ensuring a safe learning environment for all students.
