St James' CofE Junior School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 2 June 2026

Pupils flourish at this school. They are proud of the school’s Christian values. Pupils strive to live up to the ‘St James’ way’, to be kind, respectful and to give their all. They build positive relationships with staff and their peers. Pupils describe their school as a place where they ‘help each other, do not judge anyone and celebrate their differences’. Bullying and discrimination are rare at this school. When incidents do occur, leaders ensure that they are resolved quickly. Pupils feel safe at school. They know that staff care about them and will prioritise helping them with any challenges they face. Pupils speak confidently about the positive difference this makes to their wellbeing. Pupils’ personal development is promoted extensively. Pupils are keen to engage in the wide-ranging opportunities that are on offer beyond the classroom. For example, there are many clubs that ignite pupils’ interests and develop their talents. These include animation, judo, archery and badminton. Pupils also develop their confidence and independence through experiences such as residential trips, leading external events and taking on leadership roles. Through these, pupils gain a thirst for finding out more about the world around them. Pupils develop a mature understanding of the impact that they can have on their community. For example, 'pupil ambassadors' spoke to the local member of parliament about their development ideas for the local area. Through their roles as ‘power rangers’, pupils strive to reduce energy usage at the school. Leaders ensure that all pupils can take part in these experiences, and that all pupils have opportunities to represent the school. Pupils enjoy school and generally demonstrate positive attitudes to their learning. Their rates of attendance are consistently above average. Pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities, learn an ambitious and engaging curriculum. Those who find learning more challenging receive appropriate support that enables them to be successful. Pupils, including disadvantaged pupils, achieve very well in national tests at the end of Year 6. They develop a broad knowledge that prepares them well for secondary school.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should strengthen the precision of support plans for pupils who face barriers to their learning so that the curriculum delivery consistently and closely aligns to individual needs and targets.
• Leaders should ensure that the activities that pupils complete consistently enable them to deepen their understanding and build a detailed knowledge across the curriculum.

Read the full Ofsted report (opens in a new tab)