'Clear culture of inclusion' at Horndean Church of England Junior School, Ofsted finds

Ofsted has found a junior school has ‘broad personal development’ and staff are committed to reducing barriers.

Horndean Church of England Junior School has been praised by Ofsted in a recent inspection, which took place on July 14.

The school, in Five Heads Road, is working at the expected standard across all areas.

The Ofsted said: “Pupils make steady progress from their starting points in subjects other than mathematics and English, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities. They build knowledge and skills well over time in each subject.

“Leaders work effectively with external professionals to identify barriers and strengthen the curriculum, resources and staff expertise. Overall, pupils are well prepared for the next stage of their education.”

The inspection noted that attendance is a strength at the school and there is a “diligent focus” on ensuring this remains the case. Staff work closely with students, families and external agencies to provide support.

Leaders have also spent time strengthening the quality of the school’s curriculum which is carefully planned to develop knowledge and understanding over time. English is a particularly strong area as pupils develop their writing successfully during their time at the setting.

The published report added: “Teachers benefit from sufficient subject expertise. They use assessment effectively to check pupils' understanding and use this information to adapt learning. Staff explain new ideas clearly.”

Inclusion is also highlighted, with the report explaining “leaders have established a clear culture of inclusion, underpinned by high expectations and a commitment to reducing barriers to learning and wellbeing.”

Staff make appropriate adaptions to their teaching so all students can access the curiculum without facing any barriers. Interventions through reading support, homework clubs, therapeutic provision and adapted timetables help students build confidence during their education.

In order to continue working at the expected standard and improve further, leaders should make sure maths is taught consistently to improve end of key stage 2 outcomes.

For more information about the Ofsted report, click here.