Northolmes Junior School in Horsham, West Sussex, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on June 4 and 5, 2024. The school demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a positive educational environment where pupils are happy and engaged in their learning. The school’s values of kindness, respect, and readiness are well understood by the students, who actively participate in assemblies and a comprehensive personal, social, and health education curriculum. Pupils benefit from thoughtful activities that promote their well-being, such as growing and harvesting vegetables, which they then cook and enjoy. The school offers a variety of sports activities, including football, netball, dance, and table tennis, contributing to a well-rounded educational experience.
Behaviour at Northolmes Junior School is commendable, with pupils showing responsibility and respect towards one another and the staff. High expectations for behaviour are set by the staff, and incidents are managed swiftly and effectively. The school works closely with families to support regular attendance, ensuring that pupils at risk of poor attendance receive the necessary assistance.
The quality of education is prioritized, with staff maintaining high expectations for pupil achievement. Although some recent outcomes indicated that certain pupils did not perform to their full potential, current students are showing increased confidence and competence in reading, writing, and mathematics. The school effectively supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they receive the necessary resources and attention.
Reading is a key focus at Northolmes Junior School, with staff well-trained in phonics and reading instruction. The systematic approach to teaching early reading is firmly established, and pupils who struggle receive additional support to help them become fluent readers. The school fosters a love of reading, with pupils enthusiastically recommending books to one another and engaging with high-quality texts that connect to their curriculum studies.
Since the last inspection, the curriculum has seen significant improvements, with a clear identification of the knowledge and skills pupils are expected to acquire across all subjects. Core subjects like mathematics and English have been thoroughly reviewed, and lessons are carefully sequenced to build knowledge over time. However, in some foundation subjects, the implementation of the curriculum is not as effective, and staff do not consistently check pupils' understanding, which can hinder some pupils' learning progress.
The broader development of pupils is central to the school's ethos, with staff leading by example through various artistic and musical initiatives. All pupils, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds, have opportunities to learn musical instruments. The school also invites speakers and organizes residential trips to reinforce its values and promote resilience among pupils.
Governance at Northolmes Junior School is strong, with governors accurately identifying the school's strengths and areas for improvement. They provide effective support and challenge to the staff. The school has engaged in focused improvement efforts, and staff feel well-supported in their professional development. There is a strong sense of teamwork and collaboration among staff, contributing to a positive working environment.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and their welfare is prioritized. Overall, Northolmes Junior School is a good school that provides a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, fostering both academic and personal growth.
