This letter outlines the findings from the monitoring inspection of Wavell Community Junior School, which took place on November 23, 2022. The inspection was conducted on behalf of His Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Education, Children’s Services and Skills, due to the school receiving two consecutive judgments of requires improvement in previous inspections. The inspection involved discussions with the executive headteacher, senior leaders, staff, governors, and a local authority representative, as well as classroom visits and interactions with pupils.
Wavell Community Junior School continues to require improvement. While leaders have made progress in enhancing the school, further efforts are necessary for it to achieve a good rating. The school is advised to ensure that teachers possess secure subject knowledge and effectively plan to meet ambitious curriculum goals. Additionally, it is important for teachers to routinely check what pupils know and remember, allowing them to build on their prior knowledge effectively.
The inspection revealed that the new executive headteacher has taken decisive action to address previous areas of concern. The leadership has empowered both new and existing leaders, fostering consistency and continuity for students across the primary phase. The executive headteacher has instilled confidence in parents and has made significant strides in improving the school’s curriculum. Strong cross-federation links have been developed, utilizing the skills of other schools to create a comprehensive primary curriculum. Leaders are aware that meaningful change takes time and are focused on sustainable improvements, encouraging staff to take ownership of their curriculum.
Despite these advancements, some subjects are still in their initial teaching cycles, leading to less effective learning in certain lessons. Teachers are in the process of reviewing and refining content and sequence, which can hinder the learning experience. Assessment strategies in the wider curriculum are also in their early stages, and while leaders are considering ways to develop this, it is crucial that assessments support teachers in ensuring that all pupils know and remember the curriculum content.
The school has implemented a reading support strategy, utilizing the skills of leaders and teachers, along with assistance from a partner school and an English hub. This initiative aims to support pupils struggling with reading, extending beyond those who did not pass the phonics screening check. The chosen reading scheme is being followed with precision, and a new support package has been introduced for children needing additional help. This approach has fostered a positive reading culture within the school, with pupils expressing enthusiasm for the diverse literature provided.
Following the previous inspection, the governing body and staff have collaborated closely with the local authority and national leaders of education and governance. This partnership has led to rapid improvements in the school, with a focus on safeguarding, inclusion, and attendance contributing to overall progress. The governing body is now well-established, equipped with a range of skills to effectively challenge school leaders and ensure that the right decisions are being made for improvement. Their focus remains on the areas identified for improvement in the previous inspection report, as well as ensuring the long-term stability of the school. The letter concludes by indicating that it will be shared with relevant stakeholders and published on the Ofsted reports website.
