Ibstock Junior School, located on Melbourne Road in Ibstock, Leicestershire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 28 and 29, 2020. The school provides a positive learning environment where pupils enjoy their education. The lessons are engaging and enjoyable, fostering a sense of camaraderie among students who work diligently throughout the day. The leadership team at Ibstock Junior School is ambitious and maintains high expectations for all pupils. They actively support and coach staff to ensure effective teaching across a diverse range of subjects, preparing students for their future educational journeys.
Pupils appreciate the variety of trips and extracurricular clubs available to them, including a memorable experience of singing at a large concert in Birmingham alongside other schools. The school prioritizes the safety and well-being of its students, with pupils expressing confidence in the adults' ability to address any instances of bullying swiftly. The school environment is calm and conducive to learning, with pupils demonstrating politeness and respect. The school values, encapsulated in the acronym ACE—achieve, collaborate, enjoy—are embraced by the students, reflecting a strong sense of community.
The leadership team is committed to providing a high-quality, well-rounded education, and this vision is shared by the entire staff and governing body. Reading is emphasized as a key priority, and pupils are supported in becoming proficient and enthusiastic readers. Staff are well-trained to assist students who may struggle with reading, providing additional practice time with adults. The school library offers a diverse selection of books to encourage a love of reading among pupils.
Mathematics instruction is carefully structured to build on prior knowledge, enabling pupils to engage meaningfully in lessons. Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge, presenting new information clearly and checking for understanding over time. The curriculum is broad, allowing pupils to make connections in their learning, although there are areas where consistency in linking prior knowledge to new concepts could be improved.
Pupils benefit from a rich array of artistic, cultural, and sporting experiences, with opportunities to study various religions and cultures. The school ensures that all pupils, including those who are disadvantaged, can participate in these activities. Health education is also a focus, with pupils learning strategies to manage stress and maintain well-being.
During the inspection, it was noted that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are included and actively engaged in lessons, with teachers following individual learning plans closely. The support staff are knowledgeable and provide effective assistance to these pupils.
Governors play an essential role in the school, demonstrating a strong understanding of its operations and supporting leaders while holding them accountable for maintaining educational quality. The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with a culture of vigilance throughout the school. Staff are well-trained in safeguarding protocols, and pupils are educated on how to stay safe in various situations.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Leaders need to ensure that pupils consistently have opportunities to build on their prior learning across all subjects. Strategies for recalling knowledge should be embedded and applied uniformly to enhance retention and understanding throughout the curriculum. Overall, Ibstock Junior School continues to provide a good education, with a commitment to further enhancing the learning experience for all pupils.
