St John's Church of England Primary School, Radcliffe

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 16 June 2026

Pupils are happy to attend this improving school. They arrive each morning with a smile on their face and a cheerful greeting to their peers and staff on the playground. Pupils know what is expected of their behaviour. They respond readily to routines. This ensures that each day starts in a purposeful way. Throughout the school day, pupils live out the school motto. They are ‘ready’, ‘respectful’ and ‘safe’. Pupils are clear that everyone is welcome at this school. Bullying is rare. Pupils are confident that staff will resolve effectively any worries that they have. Pupils who need additional help with their learning or wellbeing are generally supported well. For example, they attend the ‘Rainbow Room’ and ‘Calm Quarters’ to support them to successfully regulate their emotions and to learn through play. On the whole, pupils make secure progress through the curriculum. They enjoy learning. Where there have been some weaknesses in handwriting in the past, leaders have addressed these appropriately. Consequently, pupils are typically ready for the next stage of their education. Children in the early years are excited to introduce themselves and each other to visitors to their school. They find awe in the world around them. Pupils know that coming to school each day develops positive habits for the future and helps you to learn. Pupils are keen to talk about the different competitions that promote positive attendance. As a result, rates of attendance have improved. This includes a reduction in the number of pupils who are persistently absent from school. There is a range of clubs and leadership opportunities for pupils. These help pupils to make a positive contribution to school life. For example, pupils attend sports and chess club. Furthermore, they show a sense of social responsibility. For instance, they raise money for charities by taking part in the school show.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should continue to ensure that teachers identify and address any gaps in pupils’ knowledge of writing in a timely way so that pupils can become more successful writers.
• Leaders should continue to develop their work to reduce the number of pupils, particularly those who are disadvantaged, who are persistently absent from school so that these pupils can benefit from all that school has to offer.

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