Picklenash Junior School in Newent, Gloucestershire, has been recognized for its overall effectiveness, achieving a rating of good in various areas including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. The school has made significant improvements since its previous inspection, where it was rated as requiring improvement. The environment at Picklenash is described as calm and harmonious, allowing pupils to thrive academically and socially. Pupils develop strong relationships and learn the values of friendship, trust, and respect. The school promotes good behavior, and pupils demonstrate this consistently.
The leadership team and staff are dedicated to providing pupils with a comprehensive understanding of the world around them. Through initiatives like the school council, pupils learn about democracy, while the house system fosters a sense of community and citizenship. Pupils express that participation is valued over winning in competitions, highlighting the school's emphasis on teamwork and collaboration. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including music and sports, which contribute to a well-rounded education. Pupils take pride in their school and community, engaging with local landmarks and events.
The teaching staff at Picklenash are committed to nurturing confident learners. While instances of bullying can occur, pupils feel supported by staff who address issues promptly. The school is described as a family-like environment where pupils feel heard and valued. The curriculum is well-structured, with leaders having carefully considered the subjects taught. Teachers build on prior knowledge, ensuring that pupils achieve well across various subjects. Notably, the teaching of writing is a strength, with a well-planned approach that encourages pupils to refine their vocabulary and editing skills.
Reading is also a focal point, with a structured curriculum that promotes fluency and comprehension. Pupils enjoy reading and can articulate their understanding of texts, although there is room for improvement in linking reading and writing more closely. The school provides support for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they have access to a meaningful curriculum. The mathematics curriculum is strong, benefiting from a national research project that enhances teaching practices.
Teaching assistants play a vital role in supporting pupils, particularly those who speak English as an additional language, enabling them to participate fully in classroom activities. Staff morale is high, with teachers feeling supported by leadership, which considers their workload and well-being. Governors actively engage with the school, asking challenging questions to ensure high standards of education.
Pupils have numerous opportunities to enrich their learning outside the classroom, with visits to local attractions enhancing their educational experience. The school has effective safeguarding measures in place, with staff trained to recognize and address welfare concerns. Leaders maintain robust recruitment procedures to ensure the safety of pupils.
While the school has made commendable progress, there are areas for improvement. Some subjects require better sequencing in the curriculum to enhance knowledge retention. Additionally, while the reading curriculum is strong, there is a need for more opportunities for pupils to express their understanding through written responses. Overall, Picklenash Junior School is a supportive and effective learning environment that fosters both academic and personal growth among its pupils.
