St Mary's Church of England Voluntary Aided Junior School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 6 January 2026

Pupils are enormously proud to belong to the ‘one family’ that is St Mary’s Church of England Junior School. There is a calm and warm atmosphere here. Staff know pupils well and foster a culture of mutual respect. Parents and carers consistently praise the efforts staff make to help their children achieve, belong and thrive. Staff form trusting relationships with pupils. Incidents of bullying or discrimination are uncommon. Pupils are confident that staff will help them deal quickly with any concerns they may have. They feel safe and well cared for. Pupils have a deep sense of belonging. This has helped to raise levels of attendance to well above national averages for all groups of pupils. Pupils leave school well-prepared for the next stage of their education. Pupils, including those who are disadvantaged or have special educational needs and/or disabilities, work hard to meet the expectations that staff have for their behaviour and achievement. Any barriers which pupils have to their learning are reduced effectively. Typically, pupils achieve well. However, a minority of pupils have gaps in their knowledge when they enter the school, especially in their writing. The school is closing these gaps by developing the teaching of writing and helping staff to check pupils' understanding more consistently in lessons. Pupils benefit from a wide range of trips and visits that are matched carefully to their learning. For example, they go to the Globe Theatre, which deepens their understanding of literature. Pupils hone their leadership skills by taking on roles and responsibilities such as being play leaders and stewards of the school. They are well prepared for life in modern Britain. Pupils’ experiences are broadened effectively by taking part in a range of clubs and activities, such as spy and jewellery making clubs. Leaders ensure that these opportunities are inclusive and open to all pupils.

What the school should improve

• Leaders need to further develop staff expertise in checking pupils' understanding in lessons so that pupils' misconceptions can be identified and addressed consistently so that they deepen their knowledge and understanding. • Leaders should continue to embed the school’s approach to writing to help address gaps in some pupils' writing knowledge.

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