Craneswater Junior School, located in Southsea, Hampshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 15 and 16, 2022. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils take pride in their learning and appreciate the dedication of their teachers. The leadership team maintains high expectations for all students, encouraging them to reach their full potential. Pupils express their satisfaction with the strong relationships they have with staff, feeling secure and supported in their school environment. They report that they are happy and safe, enjoying the camaraderie and laughter shared with their peers.
The school has effectively transitioned back to normalcy post-COVID-19, allowing pupils to interact freely across year groups during playtime. While instances of bullying are acknowledged, students feel confident that staff will address any issues that arise. Craneswater Junior School offers a diverse range of opportunities for personal growth, including residential trips that students enthusiastically discuss. Year 6 pupils particularly enjoy sharing their experiences from these trips, highlighting the valuable lessons learned through teamwork and various activities.
The curriculum at Craneswater Junior School is ambitious and inclusive, designed to cater to all pupils, including those with special educational needs. The special educational needs coordinator has established robust procedures for identifying and supporting students with additional needs. Subject leaders focus on ensuring that all pupils acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to prepare them for future learning stages. Teachers are well-equipped to assess prior knowledge before introducing new concepts, ensuring that learning is continuous and uninterrupted. Pupils demonstrate good behavior in class, actively participating in discussions and responding to questions.
Reading is prioritized as a fundamental skill for accessing the broader curriculum. The school has implemented a new reading program aimed at enhancing pupils' reading abilities. Daily reading sessions are conducted to cultivate a love for literature, and pupils enjoy visiting the school library. However, some students in the lower years are struggling to achieve fluency in reading. While support is available, it is not as systematic as it could be, and leaders recognize the need for all staff to be fully trained in the new phonics program to better assist these pupils.
Personal development is central to the school's ethos, with values such as respect, responsibility, honesty, resilience, and self-worth integrated throughout the curriculum. Pupils learn the importance of these values and how to embody them in their daily lives. They demonstrate respect for diversity and understand the significance of democracy through activities like voting for school awards and council representatives.
The school's safeguarding measures are effective, with staff well-trained to recognize and report concerns. Leaders are proactive in ensuring that vulnerable pupils receive the necessary support. The safeguarding curriculum equips students with knowledge to keep themselves safe both in and out of school.
To improve, the school must ensure that all staff are adequately trained to deliver the new phonics program and that struggling readers are provided with appropriate resources to enhance their reading skills. Overall, Craneswater Junior School continues to provide a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, fostering both academic and personal growth.
