Lowerhouses CofE Junior Infant and Early Years School in Huddersfield has been recognized for its overall effectiveness as a good school following an inspection in June 2018. The leadership and management of the school have shown significant improvement, particularly after a period of change. The headteacher and deputy headteacher have established a clear vision and direction for the school, which has led to enhanced pupil outcomes across the curriculum, including English and mathematics. Middle leaders are beginning to take ownership of their subject areas, although this transition is still ongoing.
The school has successfully addressed previous weaknesses, particularly in writing, through strong partnerships with local authority consultants and a focus on professional development for teachers. As a result, pupils are making good progress and more are meeting age-related expectations. Teachers have good subject knowledge and are implementing effective strategies to support higher-ability pupils, although this remains an area for further development.
In the early years, children receive a positive and nurturing start to their education. The provision is well-structured, allowing children to thrive and enjoy their learning experiences. Staff are dedicated to understanding the diverse needs of pupils and ensuring their safety and well-being. Pupils with additional needs, including those in the hearing-impaired resource provision, are well supported and make good progress.
Writing standards have improved significantly, with notable progress among lower-ability pupils. However, there are instances where feedback is not consistently acted upon, which can hinder progress. Pupils exhibit good behavior, reflecting the high expectations set by staff. Despite efforts to improve attendance, it remains below the national average, and leaders are actively working with parents to address this issue.
The school has established effective systems for monitoring pupil progress and has implemented well-thought-out strategies for improvement. The curriculum is designed to provide a broad range of experiences, and pupils are developing their knowledge and skills across various subjects. The physical education and sport premium funding is utilized effectively to enhance pupil engagement in sports and physical activities.
Governors have improved their understanding of the school’s strengths and areas for development, enabling them to provide effective support and challenge to school leaders. They are actively involved in monitoring the school’s progress and ensuring that the needs of disadvantaged pupils are met.
Safeguarding arrangements are robust, with a strong culture of vigilance among staff. Regular training ensures that all staff are equipped to recognize and report any concerns. Parents express high levels of satisfaction with the care and support provided by the school, highlighting the commitment of staff to meet the needs of all pupils.
Overall, Lowerhouses CofE School demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement, with effective leadership, quality teaching, and a supportive environment that fosters pupil development and well-being. The school is well-positioned to build on its successes and address the areas identified for further improvement, ensuring that all pupils receive the best possible education.
