Millbrook Junior School, located in Kettering, Northamptonshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 6 and 7, 2023. The school fosters a welcoming environment where pupils take pride in their education and feel supported by their caring teachers. Year 6 students expressed that the school has equipped them with the necessary skills and knowledge for their future endeavors. The school emphasizes experiential learning, providing pupils with opportunities to visit interesting places and engage in sports and music, which enhances their overall educational experience.
Pupils demonstrate commendable behavior, adhering to the school's expectations and utilizing the Millbrook five hands approach to make thoughtful choices. They appreciate receiving recognition for their efforts and report that instances of bullying are infrequent, with staff readily available to assist in resolving conflicts. The leadership team maintains high expectations and collaborates effectively to create a calm and focused learning environment, ensuring that disruptions to learning are minimal. Pupils are encouraged to learn from their mistakes, which aids in their retention of knowledge across various subjects.
The school leadership is committed to providing the best education for all pupils. They have identified essential knowledge and skills across subjects, which helps staff facilitate effective learning. However, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect pupils, and leaders have taken steps to address gaps in knowledge, particularly in English and mathematics. Adjustments to the curriculum have been made, and subject leaders are actively supporting their colleagues to enhance teaching accuracy. As a result, pupils are showing improvement in their confidence and fluency in these subjects, although the full impact of these changes is yet to be reflected in published outcomes.
Reading is prioritized at Millbrook Junior School, with a carefully selected range of books that pupils engage with. Students articulate their thoughts on the literature they study, and additional support is provided for those who require assistance in developing their reading skills. In mathematics, teachers implement a well-structured curriculum that allows for regular assessments to identify areas needing reinforcement. This approach fosters confidence in pupils and encourages a positive attitude towards mathematics.
The school also focuses on expanding pupils' vocabulary across all subjects, which enhances their ability to articulate their understanding. Leaders are dedicated to ensuring that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive appropriate support, although there are instances where some pupils do not achieve their full potential due to insufficient adaptations in their learning plans.
Mental health and well-being are prioritized, with pupils learning about respect and understanding diverse beliefs and family structures. Most parents express satisfaction with their children's happiness and safety at school, and the leadership team is continually exploring effective communication methods with families. Staff members appreciate the support from governors and senior leaders regarding their well-being and the professional development opportunities available to them.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with leaders prioritizing pupils' well-being and collaborating with external agencies when necessary. Staff are well-trained to recognize and address concerns, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, while Millbrook Junior School is performing well, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that all pupils, especially those with additional needs, receive the precise support required to maximize their academic progress. The leadership team is focused on enhancing the implementation of the curriculum to ensure that all pupils achieve their highest potential.
