Highover Junior Mixed and Infant School is recognized as a good school, as confirmed by its recent inspection. The school is located in Hitchin, Hertfordshire, and serves a diverse student body. Pupils express enjoyment in attending the school, highlighting an environment that encourages them to showcase their strengths. Parents echo this sentiment, noting the supportive ethos that promotes respect and care among students. The school fosters a positive atmosphere where excellent behavior is the norm, contributing to a happy and friendly community. Pupils feel safe and report that bullying is not an issue, further enhancing their school experience.
The school offers various clubs and activities that allow pupils to explore their interests, particularly in music, art, sports, and crafts. Teachers are dedicated to helping students develop their talents, which is evident in the positive feedback from pupils about their teachers' commitment. The leadership team sets high expectations for all students, ensuring they receive a well-rounded education. The staff works collaboratively to seek innovative ways to improve the school continuously.
Reading is a central focus of the curriculum, with phonics instruction starting in the early years. Well-trained staff provide support to pupils who need additional help, ensuring that all students can develop into confident readers. The school employs reading leaders to assist younger pupils, fostering a culture of reading that extends beyond the classroom. As pupils progress, they engage with increasingly complex texts, enhancing their comprehension and analytical skills.
Curriculum leaders have established clear subject plans that outline what pupils will learn and in what sequence. While pupils achieve well in subjects where teachers have strong subject knowledge, there are areas where this is not consistently the case. Some foundation subjects require further development, as not all teachers effectively build on pupils' prior knowledge. The school recognizes this and is committed to providing the necessary training and support to enhance teachers' confidence and expertise in these areas.
The school is inclusive, ensuring that disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs and disabilities have access to the curriculum. The special educational needs coordinator plays a vital role in supporting these pupils, helping teachers understand their needs and adapt activities accordingly. This approach promotes independence and confidence among all learners.
Beyond academics, the school emphasizes the importance of pupils' wider development. Initiatives such as healthy eating events and the school council introduce students to concepts of democracy and community involvement. Governors actively support the school, holding leaders accountable and ensuring that safeguarding measures are effective. The school prioritizes the safety and well-being of its pupils, with staff trained to identify and address any concerns.
Overall, Highover Junior Mixed and Infant School is a well-regarded institution that continues to strive for excellence. The leadership team is proud of the school's achievements and its role in the local community. Staff morale is high, and there is a strong sense of teamwork among educators. Parents and carers express satisfaction with the school's performance, indicating a positive relationship between the school and its community. The school is committed to ongoing improvement, particularly in enhancing the quality of education across all subjects, ensuring that every pupil can thrive and succeed.
