St James' Roman Catholic Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 27 January 2026

Pupils arrive each morning with enthusiastic smiles, eager to see their friends and teachers and ready for a day of purposeful learning. They speak warmly about their school and describe it as a happy place where they feel valued and included. Pupils enjoy their learning because teachers provide engaging lessons and create an environment where curiosity and effort matter. Pupils take pride in their work and show determination to achieve well across the curriculum. Pupils behave extremely well. They move around the school sensibly, listen attentively in lessons and support one another with kindness. Warm, respectful relationships help to create the calm and positive atmosphere that leaders and staff nurture. Pupils understand the school's values of love, respect, peace, justice and equality, and they show these values in the way they treat each other. They celebrate many different faiths and cultures and see diversity as something that enriches their community. This prepares them very well for life in modern Britain. Pupils feel safe in school and trust adults to help them. They know who to speak to if they feel worried, and they explain clearly how staff respond quickly when they need support. Pupils report that bullying happens very rarely and when it does occur, staff address it firmly and fairly. Leaders teach pupils how to recognise risks, manage friendships and stay safe online and offline. This boosts pupils' confidence and wellbeing. Pupils achieve very well here. They reach standards that are well above national averages in national tests and produce high-quality work across subjects. Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities achieve well, and leaders continue to refine their approach so support remains effective in every subject. Pupils, including those who are disadvantaged or experience challenging circumstances, leave each key stage well prepared for their next steps, equipped with the knowledge, skills and attitudes they need to truly flourish.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should review the impact of inclusion provision more closely to ensure that support for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities is effective and consistent across all subjects.

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