Knaresborough St John’s Church of England Primary School, located in North Yorkshire, has recently undergone an inspection, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good across various categories including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. The early years provision has been rated as outstanding. The headteacher, Alex Hope, leads the school, which is part of the Elevate Multi Academy Trust, overseen by CEO Nigel Ashley and a board of trustees chaired by John Brear.
The school is characterized by a welcoming and caring environment where pupils feel safe and enjoy their learning experiences. They engage in a variety of activities, such as cookery club, drum workshops, and football practice, fostering strong relationships among peers and staff. Respect and individuality are core values, and pupils report that bullying is rare, with staff addressing any issues promptly. The leadership team is passionate and maintains high expectations for all students, aiming for their holistic development academically, spiritually, and socially. The curriculum is broad and ambitious, and pupils demonstrate good behaviour and engagement during lessons.
The school places significant emphasis on personal development, providing pupils with opportunities for enrichment through regular visits to local attractions like Knaresborough Castle and Yorkshire Sculpture Park. Pupils are educated on online safety and health, both physical and mental, ensuring they are well-rounded individuals. The school promotes a love of reading, with a phonics program starting in Reception. Staff are well-trained in phonics instruction, enabling pupils to become fluent readers. Support is readily available for those who may fall behind.
The curriculum is strong in most subjects, with clear expectations for knowledge and vocabulary. In subjects like mathematics and computing, structured approaches help pupils revisit prior learning and practice new concepts. However, the school is still refining its curriculum in some areas, such as history, which will take time to fully implement. The needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are identified quickly, and appropriate support is provided to ensure their inclusion in lessons.
The early years curriculum is exceptionally well-designed, with staff understanding the learning needs of children. High expectations are set, and children demonstrate skills such as concentration and collaboration. Behaviour expectations are clearly outlined, and most pupils behave well in lessons. However, there are inconsistencies in behaviour during unstructured times, leading to some older pupils not meeting the expected standards. The school is working to ensure consistent behaviour expectations throughout the day.
Pupil attendance is high, supported by strong collaboration with families. The school emphasizes the importance of personal development beyond academics, teaching pupils tolerance, respect, and the significance of equality. Pupils actively contribute to their community through initiatives like litter picking and fundraising. The governing body is well-informed about the school, and staff express pride in being part of the school community, appreciating efforts to reduce workload.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school is committed to continuous improvement, particularly in addressing behaviour during unstructured times to align with the high standards observed in the classroom. Overall, Knaresborough St John’s C of E Primary School provides a nurturing and effective educational experience for its pupils, fostering both academic and personal growth.
