ST James’ Primary School in Harlow has received an overall rating of ‘Good’ in its latest Ofsted inspection report. 

After the inspection in October 2023, the report highlighted that “pupils at St James’ Church of England Primary School feel like they are part of a family” and that pupils “feel safe and they know that staff care about their welfare.”  

The Ofsted inspector also noted the school’s curriculum, stating, “the school has planned an ambitious curriculum” and “there is an extremely strong curriculum for personal, social and health education.” 

The report also highlighted the attitude of the pupils, noting that the “pupils behave well in lessons and around school” and that “pupils are inclusive and respectful of others and their opinions.” It was clear to the inspector that “staff have high expectations of what pupils can achieve.” 

This positive attitude is supported by the “opportunities for personal development” at the school. These include ensuring that pupils experience leadership roles and responsibilities, preparing them to be active citizens.  The Ofsted inspector stated that “the school wants pupils to be aspirational and staff believe they can achieve great things.” 

Casey Cox, Head of School at St James’ commented on the Ofsted report: “We are particularly excited that Ofsted recognised our ambitious curriculum, pupils’ positive attitudes towards learning and our extremely strong PSHE offer.   

“We are passionate about ensuring that our pupils are aspirational and take pride in ensuring that they are well prepared for life in modern Britain.  

“We feel very privileged to work with such a wonderful group of children, an amazing team of staff and such supportive parents.”

Emma Wigmore, CEO of the Vine Schools Trust said, “We are very proud of St James’ most recent Ofsted outcome. 

“I’m especially happy that the inspector noted the ambitious curriculum at this school, especially in PSHE. It is also wonderful to read that pupils feel as though they are a part of a family at the school.  

“A huge congratulations to the staff and children at St James’ who have perfectly demonstrated the ethos of their school.”