St James’ Church of England Primary School in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, has recently undergone an inspection on 11 and 12 October 2023, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school is led by headteacher Lisa Harford and is part of the Diocese and Gloucester Academies Trust. The inspection highlighted several strengths of the school, particularly in the areas of behaviour, attitudes, personal development, and early years provision, which were rated as outstanding.
Pupils at St James’ thrive in a warm and welcoming environment where relationships are strong. The school emphasizes reflection and has developed a ‘Spiritual growth wheel’ to encapsulate its vision of inspiring and growing pupils for a fullness of life. This vision is integrated into an ambitious curriculum that promotes personal growth and academic success. The school’s culture encourages exemplary behaviour, with pupils demonstrating strong attitudes towards their learning. Staff model the expected behaviours, fostering a supportive atmosphere where pupils feel valued and respected.
The school maintains strong links with the local church, which enhances the community spirit and provides pupils with a sense of belonging. The variety of extracurricular opportunities allows pupils to explore their interests and develop new skills. The school encourages pupils to take ownership of their environment, exemplified by initiatives like the ‘Think tank’ group, which empowers students to contribute to school life actively.
St James’ is committed to ensuring that every child achieves their potential. The curriculum is tailored to exceed national requirements, with a clear focus on the knowledge and skills pupils need to acquire at each stage. Teachers are well-trained and assess pupils’ learning effectively, ensuring that all students keep pace with their education. However, the school has recognized the need to address gaps in spelling, handwriting, and stamina that arose during the COVID-19 pandemic. A well-structured curriculum has been implemented to tackle these areas, although improvements in published writing outcomes are still needed.
Reading is prioritized from the outset, with the school providing resources and workshops for parents to support their children’s literacy development. The library serves as a vibrant space that fosters a love for reading, and staff are trained to help pupils blend new sounds quickly. Support is provided for those who struggle, ensuring that all pupils can read fluently and enjoyably.
In the early years, the curriculum is designed to address the specific needs of children, particularly in personal, social, and emotional development. The school has refined its approach to vocabulary to help children communicate effectively and manage their feelings. This focus, combined with strong foundational skills in other areas, prepares children well for their transition to Year 1.
Behaviour across the school is exemplary, with a culture rooted in the school’s values. Pupils are eager to attend school and take responsibility for their surroundings. Leaders are dedicated to promoting high attendance and fostering a positive school environment. The school also emphasizes fundamental British values, encouraging pupils to understand their role in the wider community and respect for others.
Staff development is a priority, with numerous opportunities for professional growth that enhance the delivery of the curriculum. The leadership team is respected by families and the community, contributing to a strong sense of partnership in the school’s mission. Safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
While the school excels in many areas, it must continue to embed its new writing curriculum to improve published writing outcomes. The commitment to continuous improvement reflects the school’s dedication to providing a high-quality education for all its pupils.
