Mexborough primary school rated ‘good’ following Ofsted inspection

Mexborough St John’s Church of England Primary School was awarded the judgement following an Ofsted inspection on October 2 and 3 - its first since joining the James Montgomery Academy Trust in 2016.

Inspectors said that pupils are “happy and engaged” in lessons, speak with enthusiasm about how they learn from visits, visitors and clubs, and benefit from being able to engage with the school dog Luna, whom they regularly read to.

Bullying at the school is “extremely rare” and leaders have high expectations for every pupil, something which is summed up in the school motto, 'together we believe, together we succeed’.

The curriculum is “well designed” to help pupils become “effective learners” with the report stating that the well-trained teachers carefully sequence work in each subject.

Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) receive very “effective support” which is in place to ensure that they are able to learn effectively alongside their peers.

Headteacher Adam Minor said: “St John’s is a strong community of children and adults working together towards important goals; where our children continue to impress us with their hard work, determination, positive attitudes and ability to rise to challenges.

“Since September 2018 school has undergone many changes from the taught curriculum to the school environment. These changes have been embraced by staff, pupils and parents; making St John’s a welcoming and caring school.

“Like all schools, for us it’s about what’s right for our pupils. It’s a privilege to be a part of the Mexborough St John’s team.”

The role of subject leader in some subjects is “not fully developed” and pupils are “not always challenged well enough”, according to the report,

To improve the school must give leaders the opportunity to develop their knowledge, keep up to date with new developments and identify strengths and weaknesses in their subjects to support colleagues and ensure academic standards “continue to rise”.

Leaders must ensure pupils “exceed” their expected standard at Key Stage 2 and must also provide opportunities for pupils to work on “demanding tasks so they are able to learn more.”