Our School

St. James’ Primary Church of England Controlled School has a church foundation and seeks to fulfil the aim of its Trust Deed by offering high quality education with the context of the Christian faith and practice. Christian standards and values are reflected in the life and work of the school and are promoted amongst the children.

St James’ is an ‘Outstanding’ school (OFSTED July 2008). Our vision is ‘Inspiring and Growing for Fullness of Life’ which ensures that all children leave our school with firm foundations and great memories that will last them a lifetime. We encourage children to take responsibility for their learning, to grow in confidence and become more independent.

As we move to single aged classes throughout the school, we are confident that St James’ will remain the ‘family’ school that makes it so distinctive. Quite simply, we are big enough to provide a full range of opportunities for our children, but retain the mindset of a ‘family’ school where every individual is important and provision is built around them and those close to them.

History And The School Today

St James' Past

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St. James’ Primary School was opened in 1865 in Great Norwood Street. It was, in fact, “three schools in one” – a boys’ school, a girls’ school and an infants’ school, all in one building. The teaching was restricted to the “3 Rs” and Scripture; the children would have had to learn the catechism, the chapters of the Bible and would have had to pass the annual examination.

We have certainly moved on since then…

St James' Present

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St. James’ moved to its present site in The Park area in 1985 where we are able to now accommodate 420 children ranging from 4 to 11 years old. Today, children at St. James’ enjoy a full and stimulating learning experience following the requirements of the National Curriculum, with dedicated weekly teaching of religious education and the use of bible stories and our 12 Christian values to shape their lives. We have well equipped classrooms and dedicated, enthusiastic and highly experienced staff. We are also lucky enough to have a large playing field to supplement our surfaced playground areas, a forest school area, two trim trails, an outdoor classroom and food technology area.

Our School2

Our School