St John the Evangelist Church School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is a good school Pupils' attainment at the end of Year 6 is above average. They make good progress; and this is accelerating because teaching has improved.

In consequence, achievement is good and is rising rapidly. Behaviour is outstanding. Pupils are always ready to learn, and they get along exceptionally well together and with adults.

They are invariably courteous and considerate in lessons, when moving around the school and playing. Teachers plan thoroughly and promote good learning by delivering interesting lessons that provide good challenge and support to all. Pupils enjoy lessons and work very well, both together and independently.

The new... headteacher, ably supported by senior managers, has quickly identified key areas for action. Important reforms have been introduced, and these have substantially improved teaching and boosted pupils' progress. The governing body has gained a good understanding of the school.

Governors are actively developing their skills, and provide effective support and challenge to school leaders. The school's caring ethos is evident in all aspects of its work and promotes pupils' spiritual, moral, social and cultural development very well. It is not yet an outstanding school because : Sometimes, teaching lacks drive so that the pace of learning in some lessons is slower than it should be.

Occasionally, there are not enough opportunities for pupils to participate actively through answering questions and taking part in discussions. Marking is generally constructive but does not always promote high standards of presentation.

Information about this school

This is a larger-than-average-sized primary school.

The proportion of pupils eligible for the pupil premium (additional funding for looked after children, pupils known to be eligible for free school meals and those from service families) is below the national average. Almost all pupils are White British and speak English as their first language. The proportion of disabled pupils and those who have special educational needs supported through school action is average.

The proportion of pupils supported at school action plus or with a statement of special educational needs is below average. The school meets the current government floor standards, which set the minimum expectations for pupils' attainment and progress. The current headteacher was appointed in November 2012.