Pennington Church of England Junior School, located in Lymington, Hampshire, has recently undergone an inspection on January 23 and 24, 2024, and has been rated as good in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. This marks a significant improvement from its previous inspection, which rated the school as requiring improvement.
Pupils express a strong enthusiasm for attending the school, which fosters a culture of high expectations. They are motivated to achieve their best and appreciate the support provided by adults in their learning journey. The school is recognized for its inclusive environment, offering high-quality pastoral support to all students and their families. Strong relationships between pupils and staff contribute to a safe and respectful atmosphere where pupils feel comfortable sharing their concerns. The school encourages positive interactions among students, promoting inclusivity during group discussions and activities.
The school has developed an ambitious curriculum that clearly outlines the knowledge and skills pupils need to acquire. Teachers are well-equipped to monitor student progress and provide timely feedback, particularly in core subjects like English and mathematics. Following previous low test results, the school has taken decisive action to enhance teaching practices, resulting in improved student performance. However, there are areas for growth, particularly in ensuring that all subjects have clearly defined learning objectives. In subjects such as design and technology and physical education, some teachers lack clarity on essential knowledge, which can hinder pupils' readiness for subsequent learning.
While most teachers effectively design learning tasks that facilitate understanding, there are instances where the strategies employed do not maximize pupil learning. The school leadership acknowledges the need for ongoing professional development to enhance teachers' subject knowledge and instructional techniques across the curriculum.
Support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is a notable strength of the school. A robust system is in place to identify and address the needs of these pupils, ensuring they receive appropriate support to thrive academically and socially. The school prioritizes reading, implementing a structured approach to phonics that aids early learners in developing their reading skills. Additional support is provided to help those who require it to catch up with their peers.
Pupils demonstrate positive attitudes towards their education, actively engaging in lessons and maintaining good behaviour. The school places a strong emphasis on attendance, taking tailored actions to improve rates when necessary. Personal development is also a focus, with pupils learning about tolerance, respect, and healthy relationships, alongside opportunities to participate in various extracurricular activities that nurture their interests and talents.
The school benefits from a committed governing body that collaborates closely with leaders and staff to drive continuous improvement. Staff members report feeling valued and supported in their roles, contributing to a positive working environment. The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, ensuring that pupils' welfare is prioritized.
In summary, Pennington Church of England Junior School has made significant strides in improving its educational offerings and overall environment. While there are areas that require further attention, particularly in curriculum clarity and teaching strategies, the school is well-positioned to continue its trajectory of improvement and provide a high-quality education for its pupils.
