Elson Junior School, located in Gosport, Hampshire, underwent an inspection on June 29 and 30, 2022, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has made significant improvements since its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. The commitment of teachers, leaders, and governors to enhance the educational experience for all pupils is evident. They have worked collaboratively to create a nurturing environment where pupils can thrive academically and personally.
Pupils at Elson Junior School enjoy their learning experiences, which are well-structured and engaging. They actively participate in lessons, demonstrating attentiveness and enthusiasm, particularly during practical tasks. Staff effectively manage classroom behavior, ensuring that pupils who may become overly excited can quickly refocus on their learning. The school promotes a positive atmosphere, where pupils feel safe and happy. They exhibit calmness, friendliness, and politeness towards one another, and any conflicts are promptly addressed by teachers. The initiative known as Well-being Wednesdays is particularly valued by pupils and families, as it focuses on teaching strategies for maintaining positive mental health.
The school excels in developing an ambitious curriculum that caters to the diverse needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Leaders, supported by the local authority, have made commendable progress in ensuring that the curriculum is well-planned and sequenced across various subjects. The curriculum in English, mathematics, and geography is particularly strong, with clear expectations for the knowledge and skills pupils need to acquire. Teachers are thoughtful in their lesson planning, ensuring that learning is enjoyable and effective. Pupils appreciate the regular recaps and checks on their understanding, which aid in retention of knowledge.
While the school has made strides in curriculum development, there are areas that require further attention. Assessment practices in foundation subjects are not as robust as in English and mathematics, which can hinder teachers' ability to address gaps in pupils' knowledge. Leaders recognize the need to enhance assessment procedures across all subjects to ensure a consistent quality of education. Additionally, while the school has made progress in personal development through lessons on social and health education, there is potential to expand the range of extracurricular clubs available to pupils.
Communication with parents and carers is a strong aspect of the school's operation, with many expressing satisfaction with the support their children receive. The school fosters a culture of safeguarding, ensuring that pupils feel secure and know how to seek help when needed. Staff are well-trained in safeguarding procedures, and leaders are proactive in addressing any concerns that arise.
In summary, Elson Junior School has made significant improvements since its last inspection, achieving a good rating across all areas of effectiveness. The school provides a positive learning environment where pupils feel safe and engaged. While there are areas for further development, particularly in assessment practices and the expansion of extracurricular offerings, the commitment of the leadership team and staff to continuous improvement is evident. The school is well-positioned to build on its successes and further enhance the educational experience for all its pupils.
