St James's Church of England High School, located in Farnworth, Bolton, has recently undergone an inspection that highlighted its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on November 2 and 3, 2022, and the school has been commended for its high expectations regarding pupil behavior and achievement. The leadership and staff provide exceptional care and support, enabling students to overcome challenges and strive for excellence. Pupils are motivated to work hard, and the teaching they receive helps them achieve well across most subjects.
The behavior of the majority of pupils is outstanding, characterized by courtesy and mutual care, contributing to a calm and orderly school environment. Incidents of bullying or unpleasant behavior are rare, and when they do occur, they are reported and addressed promptly by staff. Pupils express happiness in their school environment, valuing strong friendships and warm relationships with staff, which fosters a strong sense of belonging and safety.
The school offers a diverse range of extracurricular opportunities that help pupils develop their skills and interests in areas such as sports, music, and drama. Teachers go beyond expectations, providing unique learning experiences, such as caring for exotic animals, ensuring that all pupils feel included. The governors, leaders, and staff are committed to delivering a consistently high quality of education, with a curriculum that is suitably aspirational and broad, motivating all pupils, including those who are disadvantaged or have special educational needs.
While the school has made significant strides in strengthening its subject curriculums, there are areas for improvement. Some pupils in certain subjects have not yet benefited from a curriculum that is as rigorously sequenced as it could be, which affects their ability to recall and apply important knowledge. Leaders are actively working to implement a refined curriculum across all year groups and subjects.
Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and effectively support pupils, including those with special educational needs. However, the assessment strategies in some subjects are still being developed, and there is variability in how well teachers assess what pupils know and remember. Leaders are focused on ensuring that all subjects receive the necessary support to design and implement effective assessment approaches.
The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place, with leaders understanding the risks pupils may face and training staff to recognize and report concerns. Pupils feel supported and trust staff to help them, contributing to a caring school culture. The school is committed to providing a comprehensive personal development program that equips pupils with a strong understanding of personal, health, social, and economic education.
Overall, St James's Church of England High School is a supportive and nurturing environment where pupils are encouraged to excel academically and personally. The leadership team is dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring that all pupils receive the best possible education and support. The school is well-regarded by its community, and the positive relationships fostered between staff and pupils contribute significantly to the overall success of the school.
