St Ann’s Heath Junior School in Virginia Water has received a positive report following its recent short inspection by Ofsted, confirming that the school continues to provide a good quality of education. The inspection, conducted on March 7, 2019, was the first since the school was rated as good in April 2015.
The inspection team, led by Her Majesty’s Inspector Dylan Davies, praised the leadership of co-headteachers Mrs. Jackie King and Mrs. Pip O’Connor, highlighting their effective partnership and commitment to improving the school for the benefit of all pupils. The leadership team has successfully fostered a strong community ethos that is highly valued by both pupils and parents, with one parent expressing a desire for the school to expand into secondary education.
The report noted that the school has accurately identified key priorities for further development, leading to rapid improvements in various areas, particularly in curriculum engagement. Pupils are reported to be enthusiastic about their lessons, with Year 6 students actively participating in discussions about Viking boats and Year 3 students enjoying writing letters as the character ‘Flat Stanley.’
Physical education was highlighted as a strength, with pupils developing their fitness and teamwork skills through well-attended morning and after-school sports clubs. The school’s commitment to physical education is evident in the variety of activities offered, including dodgeball and cross-country running.
While the school has made strides in assessing pupil progress, the report indicated that there is still work to be done to ensure that the information collected is consistently used to plan appropriate next steps in learning for all pupils, particularly those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). The report acknowledged that while SEND pupils are generally well-supported, some learning activities do not fully align with their needs, hindering their progress.
Governance at St Ann’s Heath is described as strong, with governors actively supporting and challenging school leaders. They regularly visit the school to monitor progress and make informed decisions, such as the appointment of co-headteachers, which has proven beneficial for the school community.
Safeguarding practices were also commended, with the leadership team ensuring that all arrangements are effective and that staff are well-trained in their responsibilities. The school has fostered a culture of safety, with pupils feeling secure and knowing they have someone to turn to with concerns.
The inspection findings emphasized the positive relationships between pupils and staff, as well as the school’s commitment to developing pupils’ social, moral, spiritual, and cultural understanding. Pupils enjoy reflective sessions that allow them to share their thoughts and experiences, contributing to a supportive school environment.
Looking ahead, the report outlined next steps for the school, including the need for teaching to consistently identify appropriate next steps in learning for all pupils and to ensure that lessons are tailored to meet the needs of those with SEND.
Overall, the inspection reaffirmed St Ann’s Heath Junior School’s reputation as a well-regarded institution that is dedicated to providing a high-quality education and fostering a nurturing environment for its pupils. The school community can take pride in the positive feedback received and the commitment to continuous improvement.
