OFSTED April 2017 Key Comments: 

• ‘Pupils shine at this school because they benefit enormously from being part of the ‘St James family’, a supportive and caring community. They are happy and safe in school.’
• ‘The conduct of pupils in this school, the way they interact with each other and adults, is impeccable – in fact, it is the best I have ever seen’ (Feedback from HMI to School Governors, Local Authority and Diocesan representatives)
• Pupils readily respond to leaders’ high expectations evident in the ‘SHINE’ ethos. As a result, they ‘Speak politely, Have respect, follow Instructions, Never say never and Engage positively’ in all that they do
• ‘Pupils work exceptionally well together’
• ‘Pupils have excellent attitudes to learning, they are curious and want to achieve their best.’
• ‘Pupils know what it means to be ‘ready to learn’’
• ‘Pupils’ conduct is exemplary. They show high levels of respect for each other and for their teachers and teaching assistants.
• ‘Pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development is a strength of the school’
• ‘The school's work to promote pupils' personal development and welfare is outstanding. Leaders make sure that pupils are cared for exceptionally well’
• ‘Staff are proud to be a member of staff at this school’
• ‘Pupils, including the most able, are challenged by their work’
• ‘Pupils are taught the skills needed to become thoughtful, self-confident citizens, able to express their views and opinions.’
• ‘Progress overall is much better than that of similar-ability pupils nationally’
• ‘Key stage 4 outcomes in GCSE examinations demonstrate consistently strong progress over each of the last three years’
• ‘Parents have highly-positive views of the school and confirm their children are safe and happy at this school. They greatly appreciate the pastoral care and support provided.’
• ‘Pupils say they feel safe at school, they say there are no bullies and are confident they would be listened to if they shared a concern with a teacher or pastoral leader.’
• ‘Governors know the strengths of the school and where there are further improvements still to be made.’
• ‘Pupils enjoy coming to school.’
• ‘Pupils, including the most able, are challenged by their work because most teachers have high expectations of pupils and plan work which is hard enough for them.’
• ‘Pupils learn well and make excellent progress because teaching in English, mathematics and most other subjects is consistently good.’
• ‘Leaders have successfully introduced a more ambitious culture in the school based upon high expectations.’
• ‘Pupils typically make good progress because teachers have strong subject knowledge, which they use well to plan interesting and challenging work for pupils.’
• ‘Teaching assistants support pupils well in lessons, including low-ability pupils and those who have special educational needs and/or disabilities, who need extra help.’