Moorlands Junior School, located in Sale, Cheshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 16 and 17, 2023. The leadership team demonstrates a strong commitment to ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, achieve academically and develop into well-rounded individuals. The school fosters a culture where pupils are encouraged to make the most of every opportunity, leading to hard work and commendable academic achievements.
Pupils at Moorlands Junior School benefit from positive relationships with their peers and staff, contributing to a happy and safe school environment. They express trust in the staff, believing that their concerns will be heard and addressed. The school maintains high expectations for pupil behavior, and many students strive to meet these standards. For those requiring additional support in managing emotions, staff provide effective assistance. The school has established robust systems to identify and address bullying, ensuring that any incidents are dealt with promptly.
The school encourages pupils to take on responsibilities through various ministries, allowing them to participate actively in school life and contribute to their community, such as fundraising for local charities. Leaders have carefully designed a broad and ambitious curriculum that caters to all pupils, including those with special educational needs. They have identified essential knowledge for pupils to learn and the appropriate timing for this learning.
While pupils generally achieve well, there was a noted decline in writing attainment by the end of Year 6 in 2022, attributed largely to the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. In response, leaders have revised the writing curriculum to address these gaps, and teachers are now more vigilant in identifying and addressing pupils' writing knowledge deficiencies.
In some subjects, recent curriculum revisions have been implemented effectively, allowing pupils to build and retain knowledge over time. However, there are areas where teachers may lack the necessary subject knowledge to teach specific concepts effectively, which can hinder pupils' understanding. In most subjects, teachers regularly assess pupils' knowledge retention and provide opportunities for revisiting prior learning, contributing to a solid foundation of knowledge for many pupils, including those with special educational needs.
Reading is promoted across all year groups, with pupils engaging with a diverse range of literature. The school has implemented a systematic approach to phonics instruction for early readers, ensuring that all pupils, including those who speak English as an additional language, receive appropriate support. The specially resourced provision for pupils with special educational needs offers a tailored curriculum that prioritizes essential skills while ensuring a broad educational experience.
Pupils exhibit good behavior and attentiveness in lessons, supported by clear routines and expectations. They enjoy a variety of extracurricular opportunities, including trips and clubs, which enhance their personal development. The governing body is actively involved in supporting and challenging school leaders, ensuring a focus on achieving the best outcomes for all pupils while considering staff workload and well-being.
The safeguarding arrangements at Moorlands Junior School are effective, with regular training for staff to ensure they understand their responsibilities. Leaders work collaboratively with external professionals to provide additional support for pupils and their families. The curriculum includes lessons on safety, helping pupils recognize potential hazards and learn how to protect themselves in various situations. Overall, Moorlands Junior School continues to provide a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, with a clear commitment to ongoing improvement and excellence in education.
