St James CofE Primary School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is a good school. Pupils achieve well during their time at the school and leave the school with results that are broadly average. Children make good progress in Nursery and Reception as a result of effective support to develop their reading, writing and communication skills Teachers are enthusiastic and provide clear written and verbal feedback to pupils on how well they are learning and what to do to improve.

The use of 'learning logs' for pupils to do homework in a variety of creative ways is very effective in promoting pupils' love of learning beyond the classroom Pupils feel safe in school and have a good awareness of how to keep themselves safe in a variety o...f situations. Pupils' behaviour in school is good and they have positive attitudes to their learning. The leadership of the headteacher is inspirational, and he is supported by highly effective senior and middle leaders.

All leaders have an accurate awareness of what works well in the school and where next to improve. The school develops literacy and numeracy skills through a wide range of subjects and activities, such as bricklaying and flower arranging. The governing body works in partnership with school leaders to continually improve the school.

It is not yet an outstanding school because : Pupils do not have enough opportunities to read more widely in a range of subjects, for example by using the library to develop their skills for research. In lessons, pupils do not have enough opportunities to investigate and work independently on a range of problem-solving activities.

Information about this school

This is a larger-than-average-sized primary school, where most pupils are of White British heritage.

The proportion of pupils eligible for the pupil premium (additional funding from the government for specific groups of students) is much higher than the national average, and makes up just over half of the school's population. The proportion of disabled pupils and those who have special educational needs who are supported by school action, school action plus, or by a statement of special educational needs is below the national average. The school has a separate area, referred to as the 'Nurture Room', for some children in Reception to specifically develop their social and communication skills.

The proportion of pupils entering the school during the school year is above average. No pupils are taught in alternative provision away from the school site. The school meets the current government floor standards, which set the minimum expectations for pupils' attainment and progress.