Dobcroft Junior School, located in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, was inspected on November 3 and 4, 2021. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, maintaining a positive trajectory since its last inspection 15 years ago, when it was deemed outstanding. The school has been exempt from routine inspections due to legislation until November 2020, resulting in a longer interval between evaluations. The current inspection reflects the latest framework and acknowledges any changes since the previous assessment.
Pupils at Dobcroft Junior School express enjoyment in attending, feeling safe and happy within the school environment. They appreciate the support provided by staff, who are described as helpful in overcoming challenges. The school fosters a culture of respect and good manners, with high expectations for behavior. Teachers effectively manage any misbehavior, ensuring that learning is not disrupted. Pupils demonstrate positive attitudes towards their education, showing motivation and ambition, with many aspiring to attend university. Parents and carers overwhelmingly support the school, praising the staff and the opportunities provided for their children.
The school excels in its curriculum design, particularly in mathematics and English, where leaders have collaborated with educational hubs to create an ambitious framework. Key knowledge is clearly identified, and teachers ensure that pupils regularly revisit prior learning. In mathematics, resources are utilized to reinforce previous concepts. However, leaders recognize the need for improvement in subjects like geography and history, where curriculum plans require further development to clarify the knowledge pupils should acquire by the end of each year.
Pupils achieve well and enjoy their learning experiences. Teachers identify when a pupil struggles and provide timely support, such as focus groups for additional help. The school is aware of a small group of pupils who may lack resilience and is actively working to support them. Reading proficiency is a strength, with teachers planning activities to enhance vocabulary and ensuring that those needing extra assistance receive it. In response to the impact of COVID-19, the school has introduced a new phonics program to support early reading development.
The school promotes positive values through its Five Bees initiative, emphasizing safety, respect, kindness, responsibility, and honesty. Pupils exhibit respect and cooperation in lessons, demonstrating a strong moral purpose through active citizenship roles, such as sports leaders and participation in the pupils' parliament. The school effectively supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, providing tailored assistance to address both academic and emotional challenges.
Leaders at Dobcroft Junior School are passionate and reflective, striving for the best outcomes for their pupils while being mindful of staff workload. They foster strong relationships with parents, ensuring effective communication. Governance is robust, with the new chair of the governing body working closely with the headteacher to enhance the information provided to governors.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to recognize and report potential risks. The safeguarding team collaborates to identify and support vulnerable pupils and families, ensuring they receive timely assistance. Pupils are educated on recognizing risks and staying safe, demonstrating a clear understanding of these concepts.
While the school is performing well, there are areas for improvement. The curriculum planning and sequencing in some subjects need further refinement, and leaders must ensure that all staff receive adequate training in the systematic synthetic phonics program to enhance early reading instruction. Overall, Dobcroft Junior School is a supportive and effective learning environment, with a commitment to continuous improvement.
