Gorse Ride Junior School, located in Finchampstead, Wokingham, Berkshire, has undergone significant improvements since its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. The recent inspection in April 2022 has resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good across all key areas, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. The school is characterized by a positive and nurturing environment where pupils enjoy attending and feel safe. The leadership team has a clear vision focused on fostering growth, respect, and success among students, which is evident in the high expectations set for academic achievement.
Pupils at Gorse Ride Junior School demonstrate a strong sense of community and responsibility. They engage in various activities, including lunchtime clubs and responsibilities such as being school ambassadors. The school promotes mutual respect between staff and students, contributing to a calm and attentive classroom atmosphere. The behavior of pupils is commendable, with few incidents of bullying reported, and any concerns are addressed promptly by adults. The school’s ethos is praised by both pupils and parents, highlighting its caring and safe environment.
The curriculum at Gorse Ride Junior School has been carefully designed to support all pupils in their learning journey. Teachers are well-informed about the content and sequence of lessons, utilizing assessments effectively to identify and support pupils who may be falling behind. Following the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the school implemented tailored support to help students catch up in core subjects like English and mathematics. A strong emphasis on reading is evident, with a school-wide focus on vocabulary development and daily practice for those needing additional support. This approach has resulted in early readers confidently using phonics as their primary strategy for tackling unfamiliar words.
Literature plays a significant role in inspiring pupils' reading and writing skills. The school encourages students to explore high-quality texts and develop their writing abilities, leading to increased confidence and precision in grammar by Year 6. Mathematics instruction also emphasizes fluency, with pupils mastering their times tables and developing the skills necessary to solve complex problems.
While the school has made commendable progress, there are areas for further development. Some foundation subjects are not as advanced as others, and there is a need for a more consistent approach to deepen pupils' learning across all subjects. Additionally, a small number of pupils with social, emotional, and mental health needs require more tailored support to ensure they can access learning effectively. The school is actively working to enhance its provision for these students.
The commitment of the staff to teamwork and professional development is evident, with teachers expressing appreciation for the support they receive from leaders. The governing body plays an active role in overseeing the school’s strategic direction and ensuring that priorities are met. Safeguarding measures are robust, with all staff trained to identify and report concerns, ensuring that pupils' well-being is closely monitored.
Overall, Gorse Ride Junior School has made significant strides in improving its educational offerings and creating a supportive environment for its pupils. The school is well-positioned to continue its development and address the areas identified for improvement, ensuring that all students can thrive academically and personally.
