Abbey Junior School, located in Darlington, County Durham, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 20 and 21, 2023. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils are happy, polite, and supportive of one another. There is a strong sense of community among students and staff, which is evident in the various leadership roles that pupils enthusiastically undertake. Initiatives such as the eco warriors demonstrate pupils' commitment to improving their school environment, focusing on projects that enhance air quality and raise awareness about food waste.
Pupil behavior during lessons is commendable, with students understanding the high expectations set by school leaders. Classrooms are described as calm and purposeful, contributing to a safe atmosphere where bullying is rare. Pupils express trust in the staff, feeling confident that their concerns will be addressed. The school leadership is ambitious for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum is broad and engaging, with staff enhancing learning through educational visits and guest speakers, ensuring pupils are well-prepared for their future education.
The school has developed an ambitious curriculum that is logically organized in most subjects. For instance, in mathematics, teachers help pupils build confidence in calculations before moving on to problem-solving tasks. The use of quizzes to reinforce learning and check understanding is a notable practice. However, there are areas within the curriculum where the knowledge and skills that pupils need to learn have not been fully identified. This lack of clarity can lead to inconsistencies in teaching and assessment, which the school leadership is encouraged to address.
Leaders have high aspirations for all pupils and provide teachers with valuable information regarding the individual needs of students with special educational needs. This information is utilized to offer additional support, such as allowing extra practice or breaking tasks into manageable parts. The school has successfully cultivated a love of reading among pupils, who enjoy exploring literature and developing their comprehension skills. Regular visits to the local library and a consistent phonics program support pupils in becoming fluent readers.
The relationships between staff and pupils are respectful, fostering positive attitudes towards learning. Pupils are taught the importance of equality and inclusivity, with opportunities to volunteer as playground buddies to ensure that all students feel included during playtime. The school leadership prioritizes the wider development of pupils, equipping them with the skills necessary for a healthy and productive life. The personal, social, health, and economic curriculum addresses physical and emotional well-being, healthy relationships, and citizenship, with pupils actively participating in fundraising and school council activities.
Staff at Abbey Junior School take pride in their work and feel well-supported by the leadership team. Governors are knowledgeable about the school and effectively hold leaders accountable for their performance. The safeguarding arrangements in place are effective, with all staff trained to recognize and report any concerns regarding pupil welfare. The curriculum also includes lessons on online safety, ensuring pupils are informed about how to protect themselves in the digital world.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Leaders need to ensure that they clearly identify the essential knowledge and skills within the curriculum and develop strategies to assess pupil learning effectively. This will help to address any gaps in knowledge and ensure that all pupils receive a consistent and high-quality education. Overall, Abbey Junior School continues to provide a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, preparing them well for their future educational journeys.
