Hyrstmount Junior School, located in Batley, West Yorkshire, has received a positive inspection report, highlighting its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on November 11 and 12, 2021, and marked a significant improvement from the previous inspection, which rated the school as requiring improvement. The school is recognized for its strong community ties, with pupils embodying the school’s values of being ready, respectful, and safe. The curriculum is rich and well-displayed, particularly in the art room, which resembles a gallery. Pupils express enjoyment in attending school, and staff maintain high expectations, fostering a positive environment where students feel safe and supported.
Behaviour among pupils is commendable, with reports of rare bullying incidents that are promptly addressed by staff. The school promotes a culture of openness, encouraging pupils to communicate their concerns through various channels, including a worry box. Personal development is a standout feature of the school, with a strong emphasis on equality and mental health. Learning mentors play a crucial role in bridging connections between parents, pupils, and staff, and a variety of after-school clubs are available, enhancing the overall educational experience.
The leadership team, including the headteacher, has prioritized school improvement, creating a cohesive team that supports staff development. The curriculum is well-structured, with clear expectations for pupil progress across all year groups. In mathematics, regular training is provided to teachers, ensuring they have the necessary skills to deliver the curriculum effectively. However, there are challenges in vocabulary retention among pupils, particularly in subjects like history and physical education, where some key concepts are not consistently recalled.
The introduction of a new reading curriculum has been well-received, with a focus on diverse authors and the importance of reading. Pupils engage in daily story time and receive additional support to improve their reading skills. The new special educational needs coordinator has made significant strides in ensuring that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are fully included in school life, with appropriate adaptations made to the curriculum.
The school also offers a range of extracurricular opportunities, including visits from local professionals to enhance learning about democracy and consequences of actions. Parents appreciate the accessibility of staff and the efforts made to reduce their workload. Safeguarding measures are robust, with effective procedures in place to protect pupils and ensure their well-being. Staff are well-trained to identify risks and adapt the curriculum to address local issues, such as road safety.
Despite the many strengths, the school recognizes the need to improve its vocabulary strategy to ensure that pupils can consistently use and apply the subject-specific vocabulary across all areas of learning. This will involve a review and consistent application of vocabulary-building strategies throughout the curriculum. Overall, Hyrstmount Junior School demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement and the well-being of its pupils, making it a valuable institution within the community.
