Elmhurst Junior School, located in Somerset, has recently undergone an inspection on the 14th and 15th of November 2023, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has shown significant improvement since its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management have all been rated as good, indicating a positive trajectory in the school's performance.
The school emphasizes its core values of respect, trust, kindness, and forgiveness, which are integral to the school culture. Pupils develop strong relationships with staff and peers, fostering an environment where kindness and forgiveness are encouraged. The school maintains high expectations for its students, who demonstrate ambition for their futures. Most pupils exhibit positive attitudes towards learning and enjoy the diverse range of subjects offered. They understand the behavioral expectations set by the school and appreciate the various reward systems in place for positive behavior. While a small number of pupils struggle with behavior management, staff provide effective support to ensure that the learning environment remains conducive to education.
Elmhurst Junior School offers a broad and well-structured curriculum, with subject leaders identifying essential knowledge for pupils. Teaching is designed to break down complex concepts into manageable steps, allowing pupils to build on their existing knowledge effectively. For instance, Year 6 pupils display a strong understanding of the circulatory system, showcasing the depth of their learning. Subject leaders are knowledgeable and continuously work to refine the curriculum, sharing their expertise with colleagues. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the assessment practices in some subjects, which need to be more precise to identify gaps in pupils' understanding.
The school has made strides in strengthening its mathematics curriculum, addressing previous weaknesses. Current pupils are developing their arithmetic skills well and becoming proficient mathematicians. In English, pupils engage with a variety of texts and express enthusiasm for reading, both in school and at home. The library is well-resourced, and pupils enjoy the privilege of reading in a designated area. Additionally, pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive appropriate support, with staff adapting their teaching to meet individual needs.
The school also implements a well-planned curriculum for life, covering essential topics such as healthy lifestyles and online safety. Pupils learn about different cultures and are encouraged to make informed choices. The local governing body, although comprised of many new members, is effectively led by an experienced chair who understands the school's priorities and challenges leaders appropriately.
Staff at Elmhurst Junior School express pride in their work and feel supported through professional development opportunities. The school culture promotes teamwork and transparency, with leaders mindful of staff well-being and workload management. Safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
Despite the positive aspects, the school must address specific areas for improvement. Some pupils in the early stages of reading require more precise support to enhance their skills. Additionally, the assessment practices in certain subjects need to be refined to ensure that teachers can consistently identify and address gaps in knowledge. By focusing on these areas, Elmhurst Junior School can continue to build on its successes and provide an excellent educational experience for all its pupils.
