St Michael at Bowes CofE Junior School, located in London, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on July 11 and 12, 2023. The school is characterized by a welcoming environment where pupils are friendly and supportive, particularly towards newcomers. The leadership team maintains high expectations for students, ensuring they receive a broad education across various subjects and experiences, which contributes to their overall achievement.
The school encourages pupils to take on responsibilities that positively impact their community. For instance, members of the school council have been involved in selecting new playground equipment, while the eco team actively participates in environmental initiatives, including maintaining a community garden. Additionally, older students serve as reading buddies for younger pupils, fostering a love for reading and collaboration among different year groups.
Emotional well-being is a priority at St Michael at Bowes. Staff promote a culture where pupils feel safe to express their concerns, whether through designated sessions or by using a worry box. The school effectively addresses any instances of poor behavior, ensuring a safe and supportive atmosphere for all students.
Leaders organize enriching events such as museum visits and trips to the seaside, which enhance the learning experience. Pupils are made aware of the relevance of their studies to various career paths, exemplified by a former student who spoke to Year 6 about becoming a botanist. The curriculum is designed to align with the national standards, ensuring that pupils acquire the necessary knowledge and skills as they progress through their education.
The school effectively integrates different subjects, allowing pupils to apply their learning in real-world contexts. For example, Year 5 students utilized their scientific knowledge of plants to understand geographical issues like deforestation and global warming. Similarly, Year 3 pupils applied printing techniques in art to create fossil images, reinforcing their science lessons.
Teachers provide ample opportunities for pupils to consolidate their learning before advancing to more challenging material. They are supported in developing their subject knowledge and are proactive in addressing misconceptions. Regular assessments help teachers adapt their instruction to meet the needs of their students, although there are occasional lapses in emphasizing essential knowledge that should be retained over time.
The school has established a robust phonics program that effectively supports pupils in developing their reading skills. Staff are well-trained in delivering this program, enabling students to become fluent readers. Various initiatives, such as visits to bookshops and author meetings, encourage a culture of reading among pupils.
Pupils are engaged and focused during lessons, participating actively in discussions and expressing their thoughts maturely. Staff feel supported by the leadership team, which is responsive to their needs and values their input regarding workload and well-being.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with clear protocols ensuring that all staff understand their responsibilities. Regular training keeps staff informed about the latest requirements, and pupils are educated about safety risks, including online safety. The school ensures that students have access to trusted adults and external support when needed.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Specifically, the implementation of the curriculum should be refined to ensure that pupils consistently learn and retain key facts necessary for their future learning. Overall, St Michael at Bowes CofE Junior School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational environment for its pupils.
