Balksbury Junior School, located in Andover, Hampshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on October 22-23, 2019. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils feel happy and supported. The strong relationships between staff and students contribute to a sense of community, with parents expressing appreciation for the care and support their children receive. The school provides a variety of opportunities for students, enhancing their overall experience.
Teachers at Balksbury Junior School maintain high expectations for their pupils, creating engaging lessons that challenge students to work hard. Pupils report enjoying their lessons and appreciate the interesting content presented by their teachers. The school has implemented a new behavior strategy that has resulted in improved conduct among students, both in the classroom and during playtimes. The reorganization of breaktimes has further contributed to a safer and more enjoyable environment for pupils, who have access to a wide range of play equipment.
The school has made significant strides in addressing bullying, with pupils indicating that incidents are rare and effectively managed when they do occur. Students feel comfortable discussing their concerns with trusted adults, ensuring that they have support when needed. The leadership team is ambitious for the school, working diligently to create a safe and nurturing environment conducive to learning. The new headteacher has introduced effective behavior management strategies, which have positively impacted students' readiness to learn.
Teaching practices at Balksbury Junior School are purposeful and well-structured, allowing pupils to deepen their understanding of core subjects such as reading, writing, and mathematics. This focus on quality instruction enables students to build on their knowledge over time. However, some older pupils exhibit gaps in their learning due to previous educational experiences. The school provides adequate support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance both in class and through targeted interventions.
Reading is prioritized at Balksbury Junior School, with additional support provided to pupils who enter Year 3 behind their peers. The school's reading instruction is effective, helping students improve their skills and comprehension. Pupils express a love for reading and enjoy participating in whole-class story sessions. However, some students lack confidence in reading aloud, as they do not have enough opportunities to practice with adults.
The wider curriculum is developing positively, with subjects like science, history, and physical education being well-planned to enhance pupils' knowledge and skills. However, other subjects, such as geography, require further development to ensure a coherent learning experience. Leaders are committed to fostering well-rounded individuals, teaching pupils about citizenship and the importance of respect for diverse cultures.
The leadership team is aware of the school's strengths and areas for improvement. Recent changes have been implemented to enhance the school's overall quality, and staff members feel supported and motivated by these developments. Subject leaders are eager to improve their areas of responsibility, although some are still developing their leadership skills.
Safeguarding measures at Balksbury Junior School are effective, with leaders prioritizing the safety and well-being of pupils. Staff members are well-trained in safeguarding policies, and concerns are systematically recorded and addressed. Pupils receive education on safety, including fire safety and online safety, equipping them with the knowledge to navigate potential risks.
To further improve, the school needs to focus on developing the planning and sequencing of foundation subjects, such as French, art, and design technology. Leaders have already begun preparations for next year's curriculum and are committed to training staff to deliver it effectively. Subject leaders are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, but their leadership skills require further development to ensure they can monitor and enhance the quality of education in their subjects.
Overall, Balksbury Junior School continues to provide a supportive and engaging learning environment for its pupils, with a strong emphasis on academic achievement and personal development. The school is well-positioned to build on its successes and address areas for growth in the future.
