Black Horse Hill Junior School, located in West Kirby, Wirral, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 14 and 15, 2022. The school fosters an environment where pupils enjoy attending, guided by the motto that emphasizes acceptance and celebration of differences. Pupils learn essential values such as honesty, kindness, and respect, which are reinforced through initiatives like the star awards for demonstrating these qualities. The positive relationships between staff and pupils contribute to a supportive atmosphere, enabling pupils to achieve well, including those with special educational needs and disabilities.
Pupils exhibit impressive behavior both in lessons and during break times, displaying a positive attitude towards their education and taking pride in their work. They are well-informed about bullying and trust that staff will address any incidents promptly. The school offers a variety of clubs and activities that cater to diverse interests, with many pupils participating in after-school programs such as dodgeball, drama, and archery. Year six pupils are particularly excited about their upcoming residential trip to Wales, where they will engage in outdoor adventure activities.
The school has made significant strides in developing a broad and ambitious curriculum. Leaders have ensured that teachers are clear about the learning objectives and the sequence of content delivery, allowing pupils to build on their prior knowledge effectively. Most pupils retain the knowledge they acquire and can apply it in future learning contexts. For instance, they can discuss historical events like the Viking, Anglo-Saxon, and Roman invasions in detail, linking these events to contemporary issues.
However, some areas require improvement. A few subject curriculums are not as well developed, leading to inconsistencies in pupil achievement. Leaders need to clarify the knowledge expectations for these subjects to enhance learning outcomes. Reading is prioritized across the school, with staff encouraging pupils to read widely. While most pupils excel in reading, a minority struggle with fluency, often due to reading materials that do not align with their phonics knowledge. This misalignment can hinder their confidence and progress. Additionally, some staff require further training to effectively support early reading development.
The school environment is calm, promoting attentive listening and active participation during lessons. Leaders prioritize inclusivity, providing staff with training to better understand and support pupils with autism spectrum disorder and other social, emotional, and mental health needs. This proactive approach ensures that pupils with complex needs receive personalized support, particularly in the specially designed classroom.
Parents and carers appreciate the school's commitment to creating a positive experience for their children, especially those with special educational needs. The school promotes diversity and has successfully engaged the community in initiatives like autism awareness week. The personal development curriculum is well-structured, offering pupils opportunities to learn about various cultures and develop a sense of social responsibility.
Staff feel supported in their roles, with leaders attentive to their workload and well-being. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to identify and report concerns. Pupils are educated about personal safety and online risks, fostering a culture of openness where they feel comfortable reporting issues.
In summary, Black Horse Hill Junior School is a good school that provides a supportive and inclusive environment for its pupils. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in certain subject curriculums and early reading support, the overall commitment to pupil development and well-being is commendable.
