St John's joins top 25% of schools nationally following Exceptional Ofsted success
"We are absolutely delighted with this outcome”
St John's Church of England Primary School, Lacey Green, has achieved "Strong Standard" in every area inspected under Ofsted's new national inspection framework, placing the school among the highest-performing schools inspected to date.
Following a full inspection in June 2026, inspectors judged St John's to have achieved a Strong Standard across all evaluated areas, with safeguarding also fully meeting all requirements. The report highlights the school's high-quality teaching, strong pupil achievement, inclusive culture, effective leadership and commitment to pupil wellbeing.
The result is particularly significant as it was achieved under Ofsted's newly introduced framework, which assesses schools across multiple areas rather than awarding a single overall judgement. The inspection report notes that pupils at St John's "are confident and happy", "feel they belong", and benefit from high-quality teaching, a broad curriculum and extensive personal development opportunities.
Headteacher Rebecca Wright said:"We are absolutely delighted with this outcome. It reflects the dedication, professionalism and care shown every day by our staff, governors and trust colleagues, as well as the wonderful support of our families.
Most importantly, it celebrates our children. The inspectors saw what we see every day – children who are happy, confident, ambitious and eager to learn. We are immensely proud of every one of them.
Achieving a Strong Standard in every evaluated area demonstrates not only that we have maintained our strengths but that we have continued to grow and improve. While we are proud of this recognition, we remain committed to continually developing the very best education and opportunities for our children."
Inspectors praised the school's consistently strong academic outcomes, noting that pupils achieve well across the curriculum and are very well prepared for the next stage of their education. The report highlights outcomes that are above national averages in reading, writing and mathematics, alongside strong attendance and exceptionally positive behaviour.
The inspection also recognised St John's commitment to inclusion, describing the school as aspirational for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Inspectors noted that staff develop a comprehensive understanding of pupils' needs and provide highly effective support that enables children to thrive both academically and personally.
Particular praise was given to the school's personal development programme, including its innovative Pupil Passport initiative, which ensures every child experiences a rich range of opportunities during their primary education. Inspectors recognised the school's focus on wellbeing, leadership, enrichment and preparing pupils for life in modern Britain.
The report also commended the school's leadership and governance, describing leaders as "highly effective" and ambitious for every pupil.
Looking ahead, St John's will continue to build on this success through further curriculum development, strengthening inclusive practice, expanding enrichment opportunities and enhancing communication and partnership with families.
Rebecca Wright added: "This achievement belongs to our entire school community. Together we have created a school where children are known, valued and encouraged to flourish. We look forward to building on this success as we continue to nurture the potential of every child within our Christian ethos."