Grange Park Junior School, located in Hayes, Middlesex, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on September 25-26, 2019. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils take pride in their community and enjoy attending school. They wear their uniforms with pride and express enthusiasm for their learning experiences, particularly highlighting the fun nature of lessons. Reading is a significant focus, with pupils showing excitement about the reading areas and library resources available to them. Unique features like the rainforest hut and reading boat contribute to their enjoyment of reading.
Pupils appreciate the diverse range of opportunities provided by the school, including sports, drumming workshops, and yoga, which they find engaging. They work diligently in their lessons and value the recognition they receive through trophies and awards for their achievements across various subjects. The school promotes good behavior, with pupils listening attentively to teachers and collaborating effectively with one another. A culture of respect is evident between pupils and staff, contributing to a supportive atmosphere.
Safety is a priority at Grange Park Junior School, where leaders have established a calm and nurturing ethos. Pupils report that bullying is not an issue, and any conflicts are promptly addressed by staff. The kindness of school personnel is noted by pupils, who feel supported in their school experience.
The leadership team sets high expectations for all pupils, encouraging them to strive for their best. They have a clear understanding of the educational needs of their students, with well-structured plans for each subject. Teachers are well-informed about the curriculum and the sequence of instruction, ensuring that pupils acquire essential knowledge and vocabulary. The introduction of knowledge organizer sheets has been beneficial for both pupils and parents, aiding in learning at home.
Reading has been prioritized, leading to improvements in the quality of reading instruction throughout the school. Staff training has enhanced the effectiveness of teaching, allowing pupils to develop a deeper understanding of the texts they engage with. Regular opportunities for reading practice are provided, although there are instances where questioning techniques could be more consistently applied across all classes to maintain pupil focus.
Mathematics instruction is well-organized, resulting in continuous improvement in pupil outcomes. Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge, effectively utilizing resources to enhance pupils' mathematical skills. The school ensures that pupils receive a comprehensive education aligned with the National Curriculum, with long-term plans designed to inspire and motivate learners.
Grange Park Junior School offers a variety of enriching experiences, including educational visits that enhance the curriculum and promote personal development. Leaders are aware of the school's strengths and areas for growth, particularly in supporting pupils who struggle with early reading skills. Timely intervention for these pupils is essential to help them catch up quickly. While most staff are equipped to teach phonics, additional professional development is needed for a small number of staff to strengthen their phonics instruction.
Overall, Grange Park Junior School is committed to providing a supportive and engaging learning environment, with a focus on continuous improvement in teaching and learning practices. The school is well-positioned to build on its successes and address areas for development to further enhance the educational experience for all pupils.
