Ryhill Junior, Infant and Nursery School has been recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on November 21 and 22, 2023. The school embodies its motto, together we can achieve, which reflects its commitment to ensuring that every pupil feels valued and is encouraged to excel academically and socially. The school offers a broad and aspirational curriculum known as the ACE curriculum, which is designed to be inclusive and ambitious for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities.
The staff at Ryhill Junior, Infant and Nursery School foster a respectful and kind environment, which is reciprocated by the pupils. Students express a strong sense of belonging and appreciation for the supportive atmosphere, with one pupil noting that they feel showered with kindness. The positive attitudes towards learning are evident, as pupils enjoy their lessons and the various enrichment activities that enhance their educational experience. Their behavior during breaks is commendable, with students engaging in friendly interactions and reporting that instances of bullying are rare. The school maintains effective records that support these claims, and pupils trust the staff to ensure their safety and well-being.
The school provides numerous opportunities for pupils to develop essential life skills through various leadership roles and after-school clubs, which include gardening, choir, Spanish, crafting, sports, and art. The variety of clubs ensures that there is something for every student to engage with and enjoy.
The curriculum is well-structured and thoughtfully designed, beginning in the early years and continuing through to later stages. It is coherently sequenced across all subjects, allowing pupils to build their knowledge progressively. Teachers employ engaging learning activities, such as allowing pupils to create their own electrical circuits in science lessons, which promotes hands-on learning. However, the school has identified that some pupils struggle to retain knowledge over time, which can hinder their ability to build on prior learning. To address this, the school has introduced strategies, particularly in mathematics, to enhance pupils' recall of key facts.
Pupils with special educational needs achieve well due to the appropriate adaptations made by teachers, which include the use of QR codes for simplified explanations and additional support from adults. The school is proud of its strong reading culture, with reading areas present in every classroom and a vibrant library managed by Year 6 pupils. The phonics program is effectively implemented, ensuring that early readers receive the support they need to develop confidence and fluency.
Personal development is a key strength of the school, integrated into the curriculum and daily life. Pupils learn about equality and diversity through a robust personal, social, health, and economic education program, which is reinforced through events and assemblies. The school encourages active citizenship, with pupils contributing positively to the local community through initiatives such as creating Christmas cards for elderly residents.
Governance at the school is strong, with governors providing appropriate support and challenge to school leaders. Staff members report high levels of job satisfaction, appreciating the training and support they receive, and parents express positive views about the school.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and supported. The school has identified the need to improve the retention of learned knowledge among pupils and is committed to embedding effective strategies to enhance this aspect of learning. Overall, Ryhill Junior, Infant and Nursery School continues to provide a nurturing and effective educational environment for its pupils.
