Jessie Younghusband Primary School, located in Chichester, West Sussex, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 26 and 27, 2024. The school demonstrates a strong commitment to fostering an ambitious environment for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The inclusive culture promotes positive relationships between staff and students, ensuring that pupils feel safe and supported. This nurturing atmosphere contributes to pupils' exceptional behavior, characterized by politeness, kindness, and respect for the school's values of aspire, respect, and enjoy.
Pupils exhibit a keen enthusiasm for learning, displaying strong concentration and engagement in lessons from the early years through to Year 6. The school provides numerous opportunities for older pupils to take on leadership roles, such as house captains and digital leaders, which enhances their sense of responsibility and community involvement. Students express excitement about various school trips and events, including visits to the British Museum and participation in a whole-school production of The Jungle Book. The curriculum is designed to be broad, relevant, and engaging, with a clear focus on building knowledge progressively across subjects.
The school has high expectations for all pupils, ensuring that the curriculum is well-structured and sequenced. From the Reception Year onward, pupils develop a solid foundation in key subjects such as reading, mathematics, and science. Teachers possess strong subject knowledge and effectively assess pupils' understanding, particularly in core subjects. However, there are inconsistencies in the assessment of wider curriculum subjects, which can lead to gaps in pupils' learning. The school recognizes the need to support staff in addressing these inconsistencies to ensure that all subjects are taught effectively.
Reading is a priority at Jessie Younghusband Primary School, with a strong emphasis on phonics instruction from the start of the Reception Year. Staff are well-trained in phonics teaching and regularly assess pupils' progress, allowing for timely interventions when necessary. This approach has resulted in exceptional outcomes in phonics for all pupils, including those with special educational needs. The school also fosters a love for reading through various initiatives, such as book clubs and participation in local book festivals.
The school places significant importance on the personal development of its pupils, with a curriculum that addresses social, health, and economic education. This curriculum prepares pupils for real-world challenges, including lessons on internet safety and financial literacy. The school maintains strong relationships with parents and caregivers, providing pastoral support that is a notable strength of the institution.
Governance at Jessie Younghusband Primary School is effective, with knowledgeable governors working collaboratively with school leaders to ensure high-quality education. Staff appreciate the support they receive in managing their workload, contributing to a positive working environment. The arrangements for safeguarding are robust, ensuring that pupils' welfare is prioritized.
While the school has many strengths, it acknowledges the need for improvement in certain areas, particularly in ensuring consistent assessment practices across all subjects. By addressing these areas, Jessie Younghusband Primary School aims to enhance the educational experience for all its pupils, maintaining its status as a good school and striving for excellence in every aspect of its provision.
