Colden Junior and Infant School, located in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on December 7 and 8, 2022. The school demonstrates a strong commitment to the personal and academic development of its pupils, with leaders setting high expectations that students consistently meet. The core values of aspiration, empathy, creativity, and fun are well understood by the pupils, who actively engage in various roles within the school community, such as eco leaders and school council members.
Pupils exhibit confidence and are eager to share their experiences with visitors. Their behavior is commendable both in lessons and throughout the school environment, fostering positive relationships among peers and staff. The school has a zero-tolerance policy towards bullying, and staff are proactive in addressing any issues that arise, ensuring that pupils feel safe and supported. Parents and carers express overwhelming satisfaction with the school, highlighting the dedication and approachability of the staff. The school maintains strong communication with families, enabling them to engage in their children's learning effectively.
The curriculum at Colden Junior and Infant School is coherent and well-structured, allowing for a progressive build-up of knowledge and skills from the early years through to Year 6. Subject leaders ensure that teachers possess the necessary subject knowledge to deliver the curriculum effectively. Pupils demonstrate their understanding by making connections between different topics and applying their knowledge in new contexts. While teachers employ various strategies to assess pupils' retention of knowledge, there are instances where checks in mathematics do not align closely with the taught content, leading to gaps in understanding.
Reading is prioritized within the school, with a structured program in place to support early reading development. Staff are well-trained in phonics instruction, enabling pupils to sound out unfamiliar words and develop fluency. Additional support is provided for those who require it, including catch-up sessions and peer-assisted reading opportunities. The early years environment is stimulating, encouraging children to engage in discussions about their learning. However, there is a need for clearer identification of essential vocabulary for early years pupils, as some children struggle to articulate their thoughts effectively.
The school is inclusive, ensuring that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities have access to the full curriculum. Staff are trained to implement appropriate strategies and resources to support these pupils, and leaders actively seek external advice to enhance their understanding of effective support methods. Pupils learn about diverse cultures and beliefs through the personal, social, and health education curriculum, fostering respect and understanding for others.
Extracurricular activities are abundant, allowing pupils to explore their interests and talents through various clubs and sports. Staff collaboration is strong, with a focus on well-being and professional development. Governors are actively engaged in their roles, providing support and challenge to school leaders.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to potential risks. The curriculum includes education on safety, including online safety, ensuring pupils know how to seek help when needed. Overall, while the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement in the assessment of mathematical knowledge and the identification of vocabulary in early years education.
