Carter Knowle Junior School, located in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, underwent an inspection from December 4 to December 5, 2019. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, reflecting significant improvements since the previous inspection, which had rated it as requiring improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management were all rated as good.
Pupils at Carter Knowle Junior School express enjoyment in attending school and appreciate the diverse curriculum opportunities available to them. They engage enthusiastically with their learning and value the chance to participate in annual overnight residential trips, as well as daily visits for those who prefer not to stay overnight. A notable aspect of the school is the development of a love for reading among pupils, who often immerse themselves in books. The school has implemented changes to its homework policy, which have positively influenced pupils' focus on reading at home, a change that has been well-received by students, parents, and carers.
The behavior of pupils is commendable, with students working collaboratively and looking after one another, contributing to a safe environment. Parents have expressed positive feedback regarding the improvements made by the school, highlighting its welcoming and caring atmosphere, excellent after-school care, and dedicated teachers. The curriculum is designed to meet the needs of pupils, covering the national curriculum while also utilizing the local area to enhance learning experiences. For instance, history lessons include discussions about the impact of Sheffield steel on the local community.
Reading is prioritized throughout the school, with classrooms featuring creatively displayed book corners and newly introduced silent reading sessions that provide quality reading time. Pupils are encouraged to explore a variety of authors and books, and teachers actively support their reading development by suggesting diverse reading materials. However, some lower-ability pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, may not always receive the necessary support during silent reading sessions, which can hinder their progress.
The wider curriculum is well-planned and effectively taught, with art projects capturing pupils' imaginations and science lessons building on knowledge over time. While the leadership of subjects such as science, geography, mathematics, reading, and art is strong, there are areas for improvement in history, where long-term plans may lack sufficient detail regarding vocabulary and knowledge to be taught.
Pupils enjoy mathematics, particularly challenging activities like word problems. Teachers consistently revisit concepts to ensure understanding and adapt their planning based on pupils' needs. The leadership team actively monitors the quality of education, providing feedback to help teachers enhance their practice.
The school has established a strong culture of safeguarding, with staff receiving regular training and being vigilant in identifying signs of harm. Detailed records of concerns and incidents are maintained, and pupils are educated on online safety. The school follows proper procedures for appointing new staff, ensuring all relevant checks are completed.
To further improve, the school needs to enhance support for lower-ability readers during sustained reading sessions and ensure a cohesive overview of medium-term plans across subjects to facilitate knowledge building over time. Overall, Carter Knowle Junior School demonstrates a commitment to providing a positive educational experience for its pupils, fostering a love for learning and ensuring their safety and well-being.
