Falcon Junior School, located in Sprowston, Norwich, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on November 8 and 9, 2022. The school is characterized by a welcoming and friendly environment where pupils feel safe and happy. The school has made significant improvements since its previous inspection in July 2017, maintaining a strong focus on the quality of education, behavior, personal development, and leadership. Pupils quickly integrate into the school community, referred to as the Falcon Family, and they exhibit respectful behavior towards each other and staff. They express trust in their teachers and feel confident that any issues, including bullying, will be addressed effectively.
The school emphasizes hard work and high expectations, which pupils respond to positively. They take pride in their achievements and are motivated by rewards such as credits and the Falcon Flyer award. Opportunities for personal development are abundant, with pupils participating in various extracurricular activities, including music festivals and school council initiatives. The curriculum is being systematically improved, with leaders focusing on essential content and ensuring that learning is sequenced effectively. Teachers regularly recap learning, which helps pupils build on their knowledge and engage in meaningful discussions.
However, there are areas for improvement. Some subjects have not yet undergone a thorough curriculum review, leading to inconsistencies in teaching and learning. Leaders have not consistently monitored classroom practices, which may hinder pupil progress in certain subjects. While teachers are knowledgeable and provide additional support to pupils who need it, the curriculum's effectiveness varies across subjects. Reading is prioritized, and pupils receive targeted phonics support, enabling them to become fluent readers. The introduction of classic literature has also sparked interest in reading among pupils.
Pupil behavior is generally calm and focused in the classroom, although some rough behavior has been observed in outdoor spaces. Leaders plan to implement structured activities during playtime to enhance the quality of outdoor experiences. Pupils are educated about healthy relationships and lifestyles, and they engage in community initiatives, demonstrating their understanding of diversity and citizenship. The school has robust systems in place for supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they receive appropriate assistance.
Leaders are mindful of staff workload and strive to support their well-being while maintaining a focus on school improvement. The governing body is experienced and supportive, sharing the leadership team's vision for the school. Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to recognize and report concerns. Pupils are well-informed about online safety and personal well-being, contributing to a strong culture of safeguarding within the school.
To further enhance the school's effectiveness, leaders need to address the gaps in curriculum planning for certain subjects and ensure that all curriculum leaders monitor the quality of education consistently. Additionally, improving outdoor play opportunities and addressing behavior in these spaces will contribute to a more focused learning environment. Overall, Falcon Junior School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive community for its pupils.
