Giles Junior School, located in Stevenage, Hertfordshire, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on February 2 and 3, 2023. The school is characterized by a positive learning environment where pupils are happy and eager to attend. Respect and kindness are prevalent among students, contributing to a culture where bullying is rare. The relationships between pupils and staff are built on trust, with pupils feeling confident that any issues will be addressed promptly.
The behavior of pupils is commendable, as they demonstrate hard work and adherence to established routines that facilitate a smooth flow throughout the school. Reading is a favored activity among students, and the school provides effective support for those who require additional help, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. This support enables pupils to cultivate positive learning habits, such as perseverance, which enhances their overall learning experience. Furthermore, pupils engage in various responsibilities within the school community, including leadership roles and fundraising for local charities.
The curriculum at Giles Junior School is well-structured, allowing pupils to build knowledge across all subjects. Leaders have carefully identified essential content and the sequence in which it should be taught. Teachers possess strong subject knowledge and tailor their instruction to meet the diverse learning stages of their pupils. However, there are inconsistencies in how teachers assess pupils' understanding in certain subjects, such as history, which can lead to misconceptions and gaps in learning.
The school promotes a love of reading, with pupils expressing enthusiasm for the books they read. They are taught to comprehend texts effectively and have opportunities to practice their reading skills, fostering confidence and fluency. Nevertheless, there are challenges in the phonics instruction for pupils who struggle with reading, as some staff lack adequate training and confidence. This inconsistency can hinder the progress of some pupils in becoming proficient readers.
Teachers employ positive reinforcement to motivate pupils, who are eager to learn and support one another. The school encourages independence, allowing pupils to make choices during playtime. Additionally, the needs of pupils with special educational needs are accurately identified, and the school utilizes external expertise to provide necessary support. These pupils are fully integrated into the school community and benefit from opportunities to reinforce their learning.
Leaders prioritize personal development, teaching pupils to recognize and manage their emotions and appreciate diversity. This approach prepares them for life in a multicultural society. Staff members express pride in their work at Giles Junior School, feeling part of a supportive team, and appreciate the consideration given to their workload and well-being.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Some subjects lack systematic checks on pupils' understanding, which can result in unaddressed misconceptions. Leaders need to ensure that staff consistently assess pupils' knowledge across all subjects. Additionally, there is a need for clearer expectations regarding the identification and support of pupils in the early stages of reading, as well as ensuring that all staff are adequately trained in phonics instruction. Governors also require more information about the quality of education in foundation subjects and for pupils with complex needs to hold leaders accountable effectively. Overall, Giles Junior School demonstrates a commitment to providing a quality education while recognizing the need for ongoing development in specific areas.
