Broadway Junior School, located in Sunderland, continues to be recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on October 4 and 5, 2023. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils take pride in their achievements and learning. The leadership and staff maintain high expectations for all students, which are reflected in the curriculum and extracurricular activities. Pupils respond well to these expectations, demonstrating commendable performance in their studies.
The classrooms at Broadway Junior School are characterized by a calm and focused atmosphere. Pupils are well-acquainted with the school’s rules, which emphasize readiness, respect, and safety. The school celebrates achievements through various reward systems, including pebble points and outstanding awards, fostering a sense of community and recognition among students. The weekly Broadway Bonanza assembly serves as a platform to honor pupils' accomplishments, further enhancing their sense of belonging and safety within the school environment. The strong relationships between pupils and staff contribute to a supportive atmosphere where students feel secure and valued.
The curriculum is designed to be broad and balanced, allowing pupils to build knowledge progressively. Leaders are reflective and skilled, regularly reviewing the curriculum to ensure it meets the needs of the students. The school places a strong emphasis on reading, providing structured opportunities for pupils to enhance their fluency and comprehension. Early readers receive targeted support to practice their phonics, although there is a noted need for quicker intervention for new pupils who may have gaps in their phonics knowledge.
Mathematics instruction is well-structured, enabling pupils to connect prior knowledge with new concepts. Daily opportunities for revisiting learning help reinforce understanding, and staff effectively use assessments to identify and address misconceptions promptly. In subjects like history, the school has made strides in refining the curriculum to ensure that key knowledge and skills are effectively taught and retained by pupils.
Support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is evident throughout the school day, with varied resources and interventions in place. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that support plans for these pupils are clear and tailored to their specific needs. The school is committed to enhancing the clarity of these plans to better guide staff in providing effective support.
The overall atmosphere in classrooms is positive, with clear expectations for behavior. Pupils enjoy their social interactions and have access to various opportunities beyond the classroom, including clubs and community links. The personal, social, and health education curriculum equips pupils with essential knowledge about safety and well-being.
Stakeholders, including governors, actively support and challenge school leaders, sharing a common vision for the school’s success. The well-being of staff is prioritized, contributing to high morale and a sense of pride among the teaching staff.
The safeguarding arrangements at Broadway Junior School are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and supported. However, the school recognizes the need to improve the promptness of phonics support for new pupils and to enhance the specificity of support plans for those with SEND. By addressing these areas, Broadway Junior School aims to continue its trajectory of success and maintain its status as a good school.
