Bishop Justus CofE School, located in Bromley, Kent, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection in January 2020. The school promotes a strong, caring ethos centered around the virtues of faith, hope, love, kindness, courage, and wisdom. Pupils express satisfaction with their learning environment, noting that teachers encourage them and foster a positive atmosphere conducive to learning. The school emphasizes high expectations, and students respond well, demonstrating eagerness to learn and actively participating in class discussions. The behavior of pupils is generally orderly, both in classrooms and during breaks, with staff effectively managing any instances of poor behavior.
The leadership at Bishop Justus is committed to ensuring that all pupils achieve their best. The curriculum is designed to build pupils' knowledge across various subjects, and while most subjects are well-covered, there are some gaps in the Year 9 curriculum, particularly in art and music. Leaders are aware of this issue and have plans to enhance the curriculum in the coming year. Subject leaders have organized lessons in a way that allows pupils to build their knowledge and skills progressively, and assessments are used effectively to identify areas where pupils may need additional support.
Pupils feel safe at school, with most agreeing that bullying is infrequent and that teachers are proactive in addressing any concerns. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including clubs and visits, which are well-attended by students. The lower school pupils particularly enjoy the Freshers Fair, where they can explore different clubs to join.
While the school excels in many areas, there are aspects that require improvement. The curriculum in Year 9 does not offer as many subjects as it should, and some pupils do not continue with art and music after Year 8. Additionally, reading is not prioritized as highly as it should be, and although a wider reading program has been introduced, more time and focus are needed to ensure its effectiveness. The school is also aware of the need to enhance communication with parents regarding the support provided for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities.
The sixth form at Bishop Justus is noted for its high-quality curriculum, preparing students well for their future endeavors. Students receive valuable careers advice and participate in work experience, which aids their transition to further education or employment. The school is well-managed, with teachers supporting the headteacher's vision and collaborating to share best practices.
Overall, Bishop Justus CofE School is a good school that provides a supportive and effective learning environment for its pupils. While there are areas for development, particularly in the breadth of the curriculum and the emphasis on reading, the school demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement and the well-being of its students. The leadership team is proactive in addressing challenges and ensuring that all pupils have the opportunity to succeed academically and personally.
