Bernards Heath Junior School, located in St Albans, Hertfordshire, was inspected on December 5 and 6, 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, with specific areas of behaviour and attitudes, and personal development receiving outstanding ratings. The school was previously inspected 14 years ago and was rated outstanding at that time. Since then, the school has been exempt from routine inspections due to legal provisions, resulting in a longer gap between graded inspections.
The inspection revealed that pupils thrive in a purposeful and nurturing environment where staff demonstrate a deep commitment to their welfare. Pupils engage enthusiastically in lessons taught by skilled teachers and show a strong interest in reading. Those who require additional support receive it effectively, enabling them to progress and achieve well by the end of their time at the school. The behaviour and attitudes of pupils are exemplary, with staff helping them adapt to new routines as they transition from infant school. Pupils take their learning seriously and work diligently in lessons.
Pupils value their peers and treat each other with respect and kindness, contributing to a positive school culture where bullying is rare. They are confident that any incidents will be addressed effectively by staff. The school offers extensive opportunities for pupils to explore their interests and talents through various clubs, sports teams, and activities, including choir and coding. Older pupils take their responsibilities seriously, serving as role models and buddies to younger students.
The curriculum at Bernards Heath Junior School is well-established, helping pupils develop subject-specific knowledge and understanding, which prepares them for secondary education. In most subjects, the essential knowledge that leaders want pupils to acquire is clearly outlined and built upon over time. Lessons are carefully planned, allowing pupils to revisit and retain important knowledge and vocabulary. Teachers demonstrate strong subject expertise, introducing new concepts clearly and checking pupils' understanding through thoughtful questioning. However, in a few subjects, the depth of learning is not as strong due to ongoing refinement of curriculum planning and assessment systems.
Reading is prioritized within the curriculum, with pupils exposed to a diverse range of high-quality texts. Teachers effectively identify pupils needing assistance with reading and provide targeted support, helping them develop vocabulary and comprehension skills. As a result, pupils become confident and enthusiastic readers. The school also ensures that pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities receive the necessary support, allowing them to access the same curriculum as their peers. Teachers are adept at adapting activities for these pupils, leading to their successful achievement.
Positive relationships between staff and pupils are fundamental to the school's ethos. Staff are committed to knowing every child, fostering an environment where pupils attend regularly and exhibit high levels of maturity and cooperation. The school promotes core values of respect, resilience, and responsibility, which pupils understand and embody. The atmosphere is calm and conducive to learning.
The provision for personal development is of high quality, with a well-structured personal, social, health, and economic education curriculum tailored to pupils' needs. Pupils learn about diverse cultures and relationships, and they actively participate in a wide range of visits, activities, and clubs that enhance their understanding of the world. The governing body is dedicated to ensuring that pupils receive the best education possible and has a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement.
Staff express appreciation for the support from school leaders and take pride in their work. They feel valued and listened to, contributing to the school's development. Parents and carers overwhelmingly support the school, valuing its nurturing atmosphere and the headteacher's engagement with the community.
The inspection concluded that the arrangements for safeguarding are effective. However, the school is encouraged to refine curriculum plans in certain areas to enhance the progression of knowledge and skills. Additionally, assessment practices in some foundation subjects need further development to ensure that gaps in pupils' knowledge are identified effectively. Overall, Bernards Heath Junior School provides a supportive and effective educational environment for its pupils.
