Broomhill Junior School, located in Brislington, Bristol, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on October 6 and 7, 2021. The school fosters a strong sense of pride among its pupils, who feel valued and cared for. They exhibit politeness and respect, welcoming visitors warmly. The learning environment is engaging, and students are dedicated to their studies. The headteacher maintains high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Staff actively involve pupils in school life, contributing to a strong community feel.
Pupils report feeling safe and demonstrate good behavior, participating in regular emotional fitness sessions that help them manage their feelings. The school has effective behavior expectations, and instances of bullying are rare, with robust systems in place to address any issues. Relationships between pupils and staff are strong, fostering trust and support. Parents and carers express positive sentiments about the school, highlighting excellent communication and support from teachers and the headteacher.
The headteacher has made significant improvements to the quality of education since joining the school. Senior leaders have collaborated with staff to develop an ambitious and engaging curriculum. Teachers utilize their strong subject knowledge to enhance learning, particularly for disadvantaged pupils. Reading has been prioritized, with daily reading sessions that encourage a love for literature. Pupils receive ample support to catch up if needed, resulting in most becoming fluent readers by the time they leave school. The reading materials are well-aligned with the pupils' phonetic knowledge, and staff have benefited from training provided by the local English Hub.
In mathematics, leaders have established a detailed curriculum that builds on prior knowledge, ensuring that lessons are sequential and coherent. Teachers assess pupils' understanding before progressing to new topics, and carefully selected activities help reinforce mathematical concepts. However, some areas of the curriculum, such as science, require further development. Leaders have not ensured that pupils acquire essential scientific knowledge before advancing to new topics, which can hinder their long-term retention of information.
Assessment practices are effective in identifying pupils' strengths and weaknesses across most subjects. Teachers adapt learning for pupils with special educational needs, allowing them to learn alongside their peers and acquire the same knowledge and skills. The school promotes strong personal development, with a well-designed program for spiritual, moral, social, and cultural growth. Pupils develop a sense of belonging and respect for diversity, taking on various responsibilities within the school community.
Staff workload is considered, and teachers express pride in their work environment, appreciating the support and training they receive. Governors are aware of the school's strengths and areas for improvement but need to ensure that the curriculum is effective across all subjects. Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with leaders knowledgeable about their pupils and the local context. Staff receive up-to-date training, and pupils understand the importance of healthy relationships and online safety.
To improve, leaders must ensure that the curriculum is consistently implemented across all subjects, addressing any gaps in pupils' knowledge and understanding. This inspection marks the first routine evaluation since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the school continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing a high-quality education for all its pupils.
