St John’s Church of England Primary School in Lacey Green has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on April 27 and 28, 2022. The school fosters a happy and inclusive environment where pupils thrive academically and socially. Leaders maintain high expectations for pupil effort and behavior, which contributes to a positive learning atmosphere. Pupils express enjoyment in their lessons and take pride in their achievements, demonstrating good relationships with peers and staff. The school effectively addresses issues of bullying, ensuring that pupils feel safe and supported, with trusted adults available to discuss any concerns.
The school offers a variety of opportunities for personal development, including after-school clubs that promote diverse interests such as gardening and sports. The curriculum is designed to help pupils grow into well-rounded individuals who contribute positively to their community. For instance, pupils engage in initiatives like placing flower tubs around the village, enhancing their sense of responsibility and community involvement.
Leaders have implemented an ambitious curriculum that is well-structured in most subjects, allowing pupils to build knowledge and skills progressively. Vocabulary development is a key focus, and teachers ensure that pupils retain and apply what they have learned. For example, in history, pupils draw connections between different civilizations, such as the Mayans and Egyptians, enhancing their understanding of historical contexts.
However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in subjects where leaders are still developing their roles. In some cases, the curriculum progression from early years to Year 6 is not yet fully established. Teachers' assessments of pupils' prior knowledge and understanding could be more effective, which sometimes leads to insufficiently challenging work for some pupils. This can hinder their overall achievement.
Reading is prioritized at St John’s, with a strong emphasis on phonics and a wide selection of high-quality books. Pupils learn to read systematically, and staff provide timely support for those who may struggle. The school promotes a love of reading, with pupils engaging enthusiastically in discussions about books.
Mathematics instruction is also well-organized, with a clear sequence for introducing new concepts. Teachers ensure that pupils have opportunities to recap and apply their mathematical knowledge from an early age. Effective support is provided for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they can access the full curriculum and receive appropriate resources.
Leaders are committed to fostering resilience and confidence in pupils, providing them with responsibilities from a young age. The school promotes equality and diversity effectively, and pupils are educated on healthy living and fitness. Although opportunities for learning outside the classroom were reduced due to the COVID-19 pandemic, leaders are actively working to reinstate these experiences.
The leadership team, including governors and trustees, is skilled and knowledgeable about the school’s operations. They collaborate effectively with staff and consider their workload, contributing to a positive working environment. Safeguarding practices are robust, ensuring that all staff are aware of their responsibilities in keeping children safe. Pupils feel secure and know how to seek help when needed, demonstrating a clear understanding of online safety.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas that require attention, particularly in the foundation subjects where curriculum effectiveness needs to be enhanced. Subject leaders must ensure that progression is secure and that teachers are equipped to assess pupils' knowledge effectively. Overall, St John’s Church of England Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a strong foundation for future improvements.
