Crowlees Church of England Voluntary Controlled Junior and Infant School, located in Mirfield, West Yorkshire, has been recognized for its outstanding performance in various aspects of education. The school was inspected on November 16 and 17, 2021, and received an overall effectiveness rating of outstanding, along with similar ratings in the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. This inspection marked the first routine evaluation since the school was last inspected in March 2007, prior to which it had been exempt from routine inspections due to its outstanding status.
The school is characterized by a vibrant and happy atmosphere where pupils are highly motivated by engaging activities and lessons. A strong ethos of respect is evident throughout the school, fostering a caring environment among students. Exemplary behavior is maintained through clear routines established by school leaders, with pupils expressing appreciation for the support they receive in making positive choices. Older students take on leadership roles, organizing games for younger peers, and some serve as digital leaders, thriving in their responsibilities.
Emotional well-being is prioritized, with pupils encouraged to discuss their feelings and emotions. Classrooms feature emotional well-being charts that help adults understand how students are feeling. Instances of bullying are reported to be rare, and when they do occur, staff are effective in addressing the issues. High expectations are set for all students, and the collaborative efforts of teachers, teaching assistants, and leaders ensure that each pupil's needs are understood and met.
The curriculum is well-planned and understood by all staff, with a focus on meeting the training needs of educators. Teachers have received training in the school's phonics program, which is consistently implemented, enabling pupils to use ambitious vocabulary from an early age. Writing across the curriculum is varied and sophisticated, and pupils express enthusiasm for reading, sharing their enjoyment of books both at home and school.
Assessment practices are effective in identifying gaps in knowledge due to the pandemic, allowing for targeted support, particularly in phonics. Regular checks on pupils' retention of knowledge enable teachers to adapt lessons accordingly. Close collaboration among staff ensures that students with special educational needs and disabilities have clear plans and targets, leading to high achievement levels.
Personal, social, health, and relationships education is well-structured, promoting pupils' independence and understanding of the world. Opportunities for discussing feelings and strategies for managing emotions are integrated into the curriculum. Pupils actively participate in various clubs, enhancing their school experience.
The school fosters a strong sense of community, with leaders prioritizing the well-being of both pupils and staff. Parents have expressed high praise for the school's efforts, particularly during the pandemic, highlighting the supportive environment created by the leadership team. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with clear policies in place to address concerns and educate pupils about safety.
Overall, Crowlees Church of England Voluntary Controlled Junior and Infant School exemplifies excellence in education, demonstrating a commitment to fostering a nurturing and stimulating environment for all students. The leadership team's dedication to continuous improvement and the well-being of the school community is evident in the positive experiences shared by pupils, parents, and staff alike.
