Newlaithes Junior School, located in Carlisle, Cumbria, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on January 28 and 29, 2020. The school provides a calm and orderly environment conducive to learning, where pupils express enjoyment in attending and feel safe. Attendance rates are notably higher than the national average, reflecting a positive school culture. Pupils engage actively in their lessons, finding learning enjoyable and participating in various extracurricular activities, including music and sports. Enrichment opportunities such as visits and residential trips further enhance their educational experience.
The school maintains high expectations for pupil behavior, resulting in a respectful and well-mannered student body. Pupils earn house points for good behavior, and parents and carers have reported positively on the conduct of students. The school promotes a supportive atmosphere where older pupils look out for younger ones, fostering a sense of community. The training of pupils as 'peace makers' demonstrates the school’s commitment to conflict resolution and peer support. Instances of bullying are rare, and pupils feel confident that any issues will be addressed promptly by staff.
In terms of academic performance, the majority of pupils meet the expected standards in reading, writing, and mathematics by the end of Year 6. However, there are concerns regarding the progress of pupils across Key Stage 2, particularly in building on prior learning when transitioning from Year 2 to Year 3. Recent improvements in partnership work with the infant school aim to address these gaps. The curriculum is being adapted to better support pupils' learning needs, although some subjects, such as art and design, history, and geography, require further organization to enhance pupil achievement.
The school has successfully implemented a new mathematics curriculum, with staff receiving adequate training to ensure effective teaching. Pupils are encouraged to apply their mathematical skills across different subjects, which has led to positive feedback regarding their confidence in mathematics. Reading is also a priority, with older pupils enjoying a wide range of literature and participating in class story times. However, some pupils enter the school with gaps in their phonics knowledge, and while support is provided, it has not been sufficient for all to catch up quickly.
The physical education curriculum is engaging, with pupils participating in various sports and understanding the importance of a healthy lifestyle. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive effective support, ensuring they have access to the same curriculum as their peers. The school promotes British values, with pupils feeling their voices are heard through the school council.
Governance is strong, with governors demonstrating ambition for the school’s continued improvement. Staff express pride in their work environment and appreciate the professional development opportunities provided. Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff trained to identify and respond to potential risks to pupils. Overall, while Newlaithes Junior School has many strengths, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that all pupils make consistent progress in their learning and that curriculum plans are fully implemented across all subjects. The school is committed to addressing these challenges to enhance the educational experience for all its pupils.
