John Clare Primary School, located in Helpston, Peterborough, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 29, 2022. The school provides a safe and enjoyable environment for pupils, who express high levels of satisfaction with their educational experience. The positive atmosphere is fostered by the high expectations set by staff, who serve as effective role models. Both parents and staff report that pupils exhibit good behavior consistently throughout the school day.
The school promotes a culture of care among students, with older pupils taking on mentorship roles for younger ones, such as reading buddies. This peer support contributes to a nurturing environment where pupils feel confident and articulate. They engage in discussions respectfully and report that bullying is not a significant issue, as they trust staff to address any concerns they may have.
Pupils are enthusiastic about their learning, largely due to the engaging teaching methods employed by their educators. The curriculum is designed to be interesting, with a particular emphasis on the literature studied in class. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, with many pupils participating in after-school clubs that cater to diverse interests, including sports, music, and crafts. Opportunities for leadership are also available, as pupils can join the school council or eco-council, and they look forward to school trips and residential visits.
The leadership team has established comprehensive curriculum plans that outline the learning objectives for all subjects from early years through Year 6. Staff members have received training to effectively implement these plans, and they regularly assess pupils' understanding to tailor future lessons accordingly. Any pupils who struggle receive timely support to help them catch up. Teachers reinforce prior learning in lessons, which aids pupils in grasping new concepts.
However, there are areas for improvement. Some teachers are still developing their understanding of new curriculum approaches, which can affect the effectiveness of instruction in certain subjects. School leaders are aware of this and have plans in place to provide additional support to enhance teachers' delivery of the curriculum.
The school places a strong emphasis on reading, with a well-structured phonics program starting in the Reception class. All staff involved in teaching phonics have received appropriate training, ensuring that younger pupils can practice their reading skills effectively. By the end of Key Stage 1, most pupils are fluent readers. Older pupils have access to a wide range of reading materials, which helps them develop their comprehension skills. The school provides additional support for those who find reading challenging, enabling them to make significant progress.
Leaders are committed to ensuring that all pupils, including those who are disadvantaged or have special educational needs, receive the necessary support to access the curriculum. They quickly identify any additional needs and regularly monitor the effectiveness of the support provided.
Pupils consistently demonstrate excellent behavior, which is attributed to the high expectations set by adults in the school. The behavior policy is applied consistently, and pupils understand the importance of maintaining a conducive learning environment. The school has also prioritized the well-being of pupils following the COVID-19 pandemic, offering a range of after-school clubs and high-quality sporting opportunities.
Parents have expressed positive feedback regarding the education and care provided by the staff, highlighting their commitment to ensuring that children feel happy and thrive. The governing body is actively involved in monitoring the school's performance, and staff appreciate the support they receive from leaders, which considers their workload and well-being. Overall, John Clare Primary School continues to provide a good educational experience for its pupils, with a strong foundation for future growth and improvement.
