St John's Church of England Primary School, Sevenoaks

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 25 April 2023

Pupils enjoy coming to school. They talk with pride about the fact they know everyone's name and get on well together. Pupils are encouraged to take responsibility for their own actions and choices. As a result, they demonstrate positive attitudes to their learning. Pupils behave well in lessons and around school. Bullying happens rarely. Pupils say this is because it is not tolerated. Pupils are given a wide range of opportunities and experiences throughout their school days. With great enthusiasm, Year 6 pupils were extremely excited to share that they had recently been on a residential to Seville and practised the Spanish they had been learning in lessons. Pupils feel safe in school. They are happy, friendly, curious, and keen to chat about their school. Pupils trust the adults in school, saying they would help them if they had any worries or concerns. Leaders have created a strong staff team. Everyone works together well and cares deeply for each and every pupil at the school. Parents and carers are positive about the school. In the words of one who responded to the inspection survey, 'St John's is an excellent school and the whole family feels part of a lovely community.'

What the school should improve

• Some of the foundation subjects are not yet fully developed. This means that pupils' experiences are variable, and they are not yet achieving in line with leaders' high ambitions in all subjects. Leaders need to complete their curriculum review and ensure that all staff understand what pupils need to learn in each subject.
• Occasionally, pupils remember their learning experiences rather than the knowledge that experience was trying to secure. This hinders their learning. Leaders should ensure that staff understand what knowledge pupils are intended to learn and how best to help them remember that knowledge.

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