Burlington Junior School, located in Bridlington, has undergone an inspection that highlights its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on September 28 and 29, 2021, and marked a significant improvement from its previous grade of requires improvement. The school is characterized by a positive environment where pupils feel happy and safe. Parents express satisfaction with the care their children receive, noting that they can be themselves in this supportive setting.
The leadership at Burlington Junior School is commendable, with high expectations set for pupil behavior. Leaders are proactive in identifying students who require additional support to manage their behavior, ensuring that interventions are tailored to meet individual needs. This approach has resulted in good behavior among pupils both in classrooms and around the school. The school has effective measures in place to address bullying, with pupils aware of whom to approach for help.
The curriculum at Burlington Junior School is broad and balanced, aimed at raising pupils' aspirations. Leaders are particularly focused on integrating career-related learning into subjects like science, promoting fields such as engineering. The school also offers enriching experiences beyond the local community, including annual trips to London, which are well-received by parents and pupils alike. The variety of after-school activities available caters to diverse interests, with options ranging from sports to mindfulness practices.
While the school excels in many areas, there are aspects that require further development. Leaders are dedicated to ensuring that all pupils receive a quality education and are aware of the strengths and weaknesses within the school. In core subjects like English and mathematics, pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, demonstrate retention of knowledge over time. The reading curriculum is particularly effective, fostering a love for reading through daily story sessions and peer-led initiatives.
However, in subjects such as geography and history, the school is in the process of refining its curriculum plans. Some pupils, especially those with special educational needs, find it challenging to engage due to unclear learning objectives. There is a need for more consistent support for these pupils to ensure they can fully participate and succeed in all subjects. Additionally, leaders must ensure that the support outlined in individual plans is implemented effectively and in a timely manner.
The school promotes fundamental British values and equality through its personal, social, and health education curriculum. Pupils are educated on the importance of mental health and well-being, which is supported through various programs. The behavior and attendance of pupils have shown improvement, thanks to the strategies implemented to support emotional health and well-being.
Staff members feel supported in their roles, receiving training in safeguarding and curriculum development. Subject leaders are beginning to share their plans with governors, who are starting to understand the curriculum's development. However, there is still a need for more robust challenge regarding the curriculum's impact on pupil outcomes.
The safeguarding arrangements at Burlington Junior School are effective, with staff trained to identify and respond to potential risks. The PSHE program addresses local safety concerns, equipping pupils with knowledge on how to stay safe in various situations.
To further improve, the school must clearly identify and sequence the knowledge that pupils need to learn in subjects like geography and history. Additionally, timely support for pupils with special educational needs must be prioritized to enhance their learning experiences across the curriculum. Overall, Burlington Junior School demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement and the well-being of its pupils.
