Joy for school among the best
CHILDREN and staff at a primary school in Southport are jumping for joy after being rated one of the best in the country.
St John’s C E school in Crossens was judged as outstanding in all aspects of school life from its ‘amazing’ work in the community to the ‘wonderful’ care of all pupils.
The Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools (Siams) follows a recent Ofsted report which rated the school as Good with Outstanding features.
In the Siams report, inspector Mike Graham commented on pupils’ impressive spiritual, moral, social and cultural development as well as their exemplary behaviour.
Mr Graham said: “The head teacher is rightly proud of the fact that in his own words he ‘takes time to be with all the children’ and knows relationships are the key.
“Every child is special and valued and is given wonderful care.
“There is no fear of failure or of making mistakes so the pupils are able to give their best.
“The pupils build positive friendships through the buddy system where Year 6 befriend and support Reception pupils.”
Central to the success of St John’s has been the recently appointed “Joy team” made up of pupils from Years 2 to 6.
Their work around the school motto of Jesus, Others and Yourself inspires their peers and sums up the character of the school.
Member of the Joy team Charlotte, from Year 6, said: “Being part of the Joy team is fantastic.
“We get to spread joy to all of the children in school which makes St John’s a happier and even more fantastic place to be.”
St John’s, in Rufford Road, Crossens, was commended for the work it does in the community such as regular visits to care homes for the elderly and fundraising for local and international charities.
Mr Graham added: “Parents and carers are extremely proud of the school and appreciate the significant improvements made in recent years to an already successful school.”
Headteacher Philip Thomson said: “We are so happy that the outstanding achievements by the children in school have been recognised; this is due to the wonderful, caring relationships which exist between us all in the St John’s family.”