Shelf Junior and Infant School, located in Halifax, West Yorkshire, underwent an inspection on January 21-22, 2020, and received an overall effectiveness rating of Good. The school has made significant improvements since its previous inspection, which rated it as Requires Improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as Good.
Pupils at Shelf Junior and Infant School are reported to be happy and safe, with staff going the extra mile to ensure their well-being. The relationships between staff and pupils are characterized by warmth and care, fostering a positive school environment. The new headteacher has instilled a belief in the potential for success in every pupil, leading to notable improvements in academic performance, particularly in reading, writing, mathematics, and science.
Behavior among pupils is commendable, with good manners and a cheerful demeanor observed throughout the school. While instances of bullying do occur, they are addressed promptly by staff, ensuring a supportive atmosphere. The school is actively working to improve lunchtime behavior, which can sometimes be boisterous. The introduction of the Oasis room provides a calming space for pupils to reflect and recharge, contributing to their overall well-being.
The headteacher and senior leaders have implemented a redesigned curriculum that clearly outlines what pupils should learn and the sequence of instruction. This structured approach allows pupils to build on their knowledge year after year. However, there are still some subjects where the curriculum is not consistently followed, which can hinder the development of certain skills.
Reading is a central focus at the school, with staff trained in a new phonics program that effectively supports pupils in becoming fluent readers. Most pupils quickly acquire the necessary skills, and those who struggle receive timely assistance. Despite this, some older pupils do not read with sufficient fluency and accuracy, indicating a need for better tracking of their reading habits and preferences.
The early years provision is strong, with children in Reception well-prepared for Year 1. The outdoor area has been revitalized, offering engaging activities that promote independent learning. Parents express satisfaction with the progress their children make, highlighting the positive impact of the teaching staff.
The school promotes its SHINE values, which emphasize success, happiness, independence, nurture, and equality. Pupils demonstrate an understanding of healthy lifestyles and respect for diverse cultures and relationships. Discussions in class encourage pupils to express their opinions appropriately, contributing to their personal development.
Support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is effective, with tailored assistance provided primarily within the classroom. The inclusion leader monitors individual learning plans closely, ensuring that all pupils receive the support they need to thrive.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff trained to recognize and report concerns. Communication among staff is strong, and thorough record-keeping ensures that all adults in the school are suitable to work with children.
To further improve, the school needs to ensure that the curriculum is consistently implemented across all subjects and to gather more information about the reading habits of older pupils. By addressing these areas, Shelf Junior and Infant School can continue to enhance its educational offerings and support for all students.
