Brackley Church of England Junior School, located in Northamptonshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 24 and 25, 2022. The school provides a positive environment where pupils are happy, motivated, and engaged in their learning. They participate actively in challenging lessons and demonstrate confidence in discussing their knowledge across various subjects. The high expectations set by the staff are met with attentive behavior from the pupils, who conduct themselves well throughout the school.
The school emphasizes the importance of personal development, encouraging pupils to reflect on their actions and resolve conflicts amicably. While instances of unkindness or bullying may occur, the staff effectively educate pupils to prevent the recurrence of such behavior. The school has resumed a wide range of extracurricular activities, allowing pupils to engage in clubs and represent the school in sports. Educational trips further enhance their understanding of the curriculum, providing experiential learning opportunities.
The Christian ethos of the school is a source of pride for both pupils and staff, fostering a caring and celebratory community rooted in love. The leadership has established an ambitious curriculum that builds on prior learning from the infant school. Curriculum leaders are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, ensuring that lessons are well-planned and that pupils can practice new skills effectively. Regular assessments help teachers identify areas where pupils may need additional support, particularly in subjects like mathematics.
Reading is a priority at the school, with daily reading sessions and targeted support for those who struggle. The introduction of daily phonics lessons has been beneficial for younger pupils, helping them catch up on essential reading skills. While most pupils have made significant progress, a small number still require further assistance. The staff is committed to professional development, although some may need additional training to provide the right support for early readers.
The school is dedicated to inclusivity, ensuring that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive the necessary support to thrive within the curriculum. Staff are well-equipped to adapt their teaching methods to meet diverse needs, and those with more complex difficulties receive expert assistance.
Pupils are encouraged to respect others and learn about different cultures and religions, fostering a sense of global awareness. They engage in discussions about significant social issues and take pride in their charity work. The school is gradually reintroducing opportunities for pupils to take on roles of responsibility, which they have missed during recent times.
The well-being of staff is a priority for the leadership, who maintain manageable expectations for planning and assessment. This supportive environment allows staff to collaborate effectively, ensuring that pupils continue to progress.
The safeguarding measures in place are robust, with a strong culture of safety throughout the school. Leaders conduct necessary checks to ensure staff are suitable to work with children, and all staff receive training to recognize potential risks to pupils. The curriculum also equips pupils with knowledge about staying safe in various situations, including online safety.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Some foundation subjects require further embedding in the curriculum, and leaders are actively working on this. Additionally, not all staff possess the subject knowledge needed to support early readers effectively. Addressing these gaps will enhance the overall educational experience for all pupils.
