Downs Junior School, located in Brighton, East Sussex, has recently undergone an inspection on the 7th and 8th of November 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school has been rated as good, maintaining a positive trajectory since its previous outstanding inspection in 2011. The school is characterized by a strong sense of community, with parents, pupils, and staff expressing high levels of satisfaction with the inclusive culture and supportive environment. Pupils demonstrate enthusiasm for learning and are eager to engage with a diverse curriculum that promotes both academic achievement and personal growth.
The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including various clubs and competitions, which contribute to a vibrant school life. Pupils have the opportunity to participate in unique experiences, such as visiting an astrodome for space education and learning about World War II in an authentic underground air raid shelter. This hands-on approach to learning fosters a love for education and encourages pupils to strive for excellence.
Behaviour at Downs Junior School is generally good, with pupils displaying excellent social skills and a respectful attitude towards one another. The school has established strong links with the local community, and parents appreciate the nurturing approach taken by the staff to support their children. Pupils feel safe and secure, with bullying being rare and effectively addressed when it occurs.
The curriculum is designed to be broad and ambitious, catering for the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school identifies additional needs early, allowing for tailored support that helps all pupils achieve well. In subjects like mathematics, the curriculum is well-established, and teachers receive regular training to ensure they understand how to build pupils' knowledge over time. This structured approach enables pupils to make connections between different topics and enhances their problem-solving skills.
However, there are areas for improvement. In some subjects, the curriculum is still developing, and the specific knowledge required for pupils is not always clearly defined. This can lead to activities that do not align closely with learning objectives, making it challenging for teachers to assess pupils' prior knowledge and address any gaps effectively. Consequently, some pupils may struggle to retain information and connect past learning with current topics.
Reading is a priority at the school, with initiatives in place to promote a love of literature among pupils. While most reading instruction is effective, there are inconsistencies in phonics teaching and the quality of additional support provided to some pupils. The school is aware of these issues and is actively working to enhance the reading program to ensure all pupils develop strong reading skills.
Pupils generally settle into routines that support their learning, and disruptions are managed effectively by staff. The school promotes high attendance rates and provides support to ensure pupils attend regularly. Personal development is integrated throughout the school, encouraging pupils to build positive relationships and celebrate diversity.
Staff morale is high, with teachers feeling valued and supported by school leaders. The management of workload is effective, contributing to a positive working environment. The safeguarding arrangements in place are robust, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils.
In summary, Downs Junior School is a vibrant and supportive educational environment where pupils are encouraged to thrive academically and personally. While there are areas for growth, particularly in curriculum development and reading instruction, the school is committed to continuous improvement and fostering a love of learning among its pupils.
