Clanfield Junior School has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 25 and 26 May 2021. The school fosters a positive learning environment where pupils are curious and eager to learn. The curriculum is designed to provide a solid understanding of various subjects, which is evident when students showcase their work in class. Reading is highly valued, and students frequently visit the library. Teachers engage students with rich texts that enhance vocabulary and connect to the topics being studied, encouraging thoughtful discussions on complex issues such as social class and discrimination.
Inclusivity is a key aspect of Clanfield Junior School, with a strong emphasis on supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Students feel welcomed and cared for, and they appreciate the diversity within their school community. The school’s values are upheld by the pupils, who demonstrate respect and attentiveness in class. The atmosphere is calm and friendly, contributing to a sense of safety among students. While bullying may occur, it is addressed promptly and effectively by the staff.
The leadership team has made significant strides in revising the curriculum since 2017, ensuring that staff are clear about what to teach and when. However, there is a need for leaders to identify the most critical concepts for pupils to remember, as this will help staff prioritize essential knowledge for future learning. In most subjects, staff carefully assess pupils’ understanding to refine their teaching, but there are concerns regarding the assessment methods used in Years 5 and 6. The reliance on generic test-style questions for reading assessments does not effectively gauge pupils’ understanding and often leads to guesswork.
The reading curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, allowing pupils to engage with a wide range of texts that enhance their vocabulary and comprehension. For instance, Year 6 students read Pig Heart Boy by Malorie Blackman, which helps them explore themes of terminal illness and organ donation. Support is provided for pupils who struggle with reading, ensuring they can catch up through targeted phonics instruction.
Teachers employ a consistent and effective range of strategies to deliver lessons clearly, enabling pupils to focus on new learning without confusion. Pupils with special educational needs receive tailored support, which positively impacts their learning experiences. The classroom environment is vibrant and encourages participation, with pupils demonstrating maturity and respect for one another. They learn about different cultures and beliefs, fostering an understanding of diversity.
The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place. Pupils are educated on how to stay safe and recognize risks, both online and offline. They trust the adults in the school to address their concerns and provide support when needed. Staff are trained to identify signs of harm and abuse, ensuring that any issues are reported and addressed swiftly.
To improve, the school needs to refine its foundation curriculum plans to clarify the essential knowledge that pupils should acquire. By prioritizing critical knowledge, staff can better support pupils in building upon their learning. Additionally, the assessment methods in upper school reading lessons should be enhanced to provide more accurate insights into pupils’ understanding and progress. Overall, Clanfield Junior School continues to provide a supportive and effective educational experience for its pupils.
