Quilters Junior School, located in Billericay, Essex, has been recognized for its outstanding performance during the inspection conducted from March 7 to March 8, 2017. The school has shown significant improvement since its previous inspection, which rated it as good. The leadership and management of the school are deemed outstanding, with strong governance and a clear vision that is shared among all stakeholders. The headteacher and senior leaders have created an environment where both teachers and pupils are encouraged to develop their individual talents. Relationships between staff and students are strong, contributing to exemplary behavior and attitudes towards learning.
The quality of teaching, learning, and assessment at Quilters Junior School is also rated as outstanding. Teachers possess excellent subject knowledge and high expectations, which enable pupils to make rapid and sustained progress across all year groups and subjects. The school has effective systems in place to assess pupil progress, ensuring that all students, including disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs, achieve well. The curriculum is broad and balanced, providing varied and engaging learning experiences. Pupils enjoy a wide range of extracurricular activities, which further enrich their educational experience.
Personal development, behavior, and welfare are also outstanding at Quilters Junior School. The school provides a safe and secure environment where pupils can thrive. The transition from infant schools is smooth, and pupils quickly settle into their new surroundings. The school promotes pupils' spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development effectively, embedding fundamental British values into its ethos. The school’s initiatives, such as the ‘Quilters Quest’ scheme, encourage pupils to develop essential soft skills, fostering a sense of community and responsibility.
Pupils' behavior is exemplary, both in lessons and during playtime. The school environment is well-respected, with no incidents of graffiti or litter. Pupils are encouraged to act as role models, and their manners and engagement during activities, such as the lunchtime service, reflect the school's high standards. Attendance levels are high, and the school has successfully worked with families to ensure that all pupils, including disadvantaged ones, attend regularly.
Outcomes for pupils are outstanding, with many entering the school with above-average prior attainment. The school effectively tracks progress from these starting points, ensuring that all pupils, including the most able, are challenged appropriately. Writing is a particular strength, with pupils demonstrating strong skills in using subject-specific vocabulary. The school has identified spelling as a priority area for further development, implementing strategies to enhance pupils' spelling skills.
Overall, Quilters Junior School exemplifies excellence in education, with a commitment to continuous improvement and a focus on the holistic development of its pupils. The school’s leaders regularly monitor and evaluate its performance, ensuring that it maintains high standards and addresses any areas for improvement. The supportive and collaborative environment fosters a love of learning, preparing pupils well for their future educational journeys.
