St James’ Church of England Aided Junior School in Derby has recently undergone an inspection, with the overall effectiveness rated as good. The school is led by executive headteacher Jonathan Gallimore and head of school Daniel Walls, and it operates under the Derbyshire Diocesan Academy Trust. The school emphasizes a culture of growth, encouraging pupils to give their best and embrace diversity. Pupils take pride in their inclusive environment, where various cultures and backgrounds are celebrated. The school has established a positive behavior framework, motivating students through rewards such as points, messages home, and recognition in the Golden Book.
The school provides extensive support to both parents and pupils, particularly for those who do not speak English upon joining. The Learning Zone helps these pupils quickly acquire essential language skills. Relationships between staff and students are strong, contributing to a cohesive school community. Leadership and management are highlighted as exemplary, with leaders demonstrating a clear understanding of the school’s strengths and areas for improvement. They have implemented effective actions that lead to sustained progress, fostering a shared vision among staff and pupils.
The curriculum at St James’ is broad and well-structured, ensuring that pupils know what is expected of them at each stage of their education. The curriculum builds incrementally, allowing pupils to make connections across subjects. Engaging lessons are delivered by teachers, with specific sessions designed to reinforce learning. However, there are instances where some teachers do not adequately assess pupils’ understanding, which can hinder learning outcomes. The school has prioritized reading, with a strong phonics program in place that supports all pupils, including those new to English.
The school caters to a significant number of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that appropriate support is provided. Individual plans are in place to guide staff in helping these pupils succeed. The personal development curriculum is rich, offering a variety of experiences that enhance pupils’ education, including trips and extracurricular activities. However, attendance rates remain a concern, as they have not returned to pre-pandemic levels. The school is actively addressing this issue by working closely with families and external agencies to improve attendance.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring that pupils are safe and well cared for. The inspection team noted that while the school is making progress in various areas, there are still challenges to overcome, particularly regarding attendance and the consistency of assessment practices among teachers. The school is encouraged to continue its efforts to ensure that all pupils receive a high-quality education and that attendance improves to align with national standards. Overall, St James’ Church of England Aided Junior School demonstrates a commitment to fostering a positive learning environment and supporting the diverse needs of its pupils.
