Clowne Junior School, located in Chesterfield, Derbyshire, underwent an inspection on November 2 and 3, 2021, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has made significant improvements since its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management were all rated as good.
Pupils at Clowne Junior School enjoy a vibrant and engaging learning environment. They express enthusiasm for their studies, particularly in mathematics, where they find tools like Flashback 4 helpful for reinforcing their learning. The school fosters a supportive atmosphere where pupils feel comfortable seeking help and expressing concerns through mechanisms like the chat box. Playtime is a highlight for students, who report that bullying is infrequent and that any issues are promptly addressed by staff.
The leadership team is dedicated to ensuring that all pupils achieve their potential. They have implemented a well-structured curriculum that builds on prior learning from key stage one. Subjects such as physical education, music, and Spanish have been developed with a strong focus on key knowledge and skills. Teachers receive effective training and support, which enhances their ability to deliver a high-quality education across various subjects.
Subject leaders have a clear understanding of the knowledge and skills pupils need to acquire. In subjects like history and geography, pupils across different year groups study the same topics, with older students encountering more complex ideas. Teachers collaborate to monitor progress and adapt their teaching to meet the needs of all pupils. However, there is room for improvement in challenging pupils to reflect more deeply on their knowledge to enhance their understanding.
Reading is prioritized at Clowne Junior School, with a well-stocked library and a structured reading curriculum in place. Pupils are encouraged to read widely and engage with challenging texts, fostering confidence in their reading abilities. The school has also introduced a new phonics program to support early readers, particularly in light of the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Mathematics instruction is well-planned, with teachers trained to identify and address misconceptions effectively. Pupils feel successful in their learning, and leaders have established a comprehensive approach to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. While interventions are in place, there is a need for more precise planning to ensure that these pupils can catch up and keep pace with their peers.
The school offers a range of extracurricular experiences, particularly in sports, which have been emphasized following the pandemic. Pupils are encouraged to participate in events that promote awareness and respect for diversity, contributing to a positive school culture. Governors play an active role in holding leaders accountable and bring valuable skills to the school community.
Parents and carers express confidence in the school's ability to keep their children happy and safe. They appreciate the support provided during challenging times, such as lockdowns. The safeguarding arrangements at Clowne Junior School are effective, with staff trained to recognize and report concerns promptly. Leaders are committed to the well-being of all pupils and work diligently to provide the necessary support.
While the school has made commendable progress, there are areas for improvement. Leaders need to ensure that pupils understand how knowledge is developed and applied across subjects, enabling them to think critically about their learning. Additionally, interventions for pupils with special educational needs should be more focused on addressing specific gaps in knowledge to facilitate quicker progress. Overall, Clowne Junior School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a quality education and fostering a supportive environment for all its pupils.
