Highfield Junior School, located in Bromley, Kent, has recently undergone its first inspection since becoming an academy. The inspection took place on September 29 and 30, 2022, and the overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good. The quality of education was also deemed good, while the behaviour and attitudes of pupils were rated outstanding, as was their personal development. Leadership and management received a good rating as well.
Pupils at Highfield Junior School express happiness and enthusiasm about attending. They describe the school as a friendly and safe environment where staff genuinely care for them. The school promotes values such as confidence, responsibility, determination, and creativity, which pupils embody in their daily activities. Behaviour among pupils is exemplary; they are respectful, courteous, and welcoming to visitors. Any issues, including bullying, are addressed promptly, contributing to a calm and orderly atmosphere.
The school sets high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Most pupils meet these expectations and achieve well, although there are a few subjects where achievement is not as strong. Pupils are encouraged to take on leadership roles, such as house captains and school council members, which they value as opportunities to contribute to their school and community. They engage in various extracurricular activities, including music lessons and sports.
The curriculum at Highfield Junior School is comprehensive and well-rounded, outlining the knowledge and skills pupils need to acquire. Leaders have carefully examined the curriculum, particularly in subjects like mathematics, history, and English, refining it to enhance learning. For instance, the reading curriculum has been improved by introducing a diverse range of authors. Teachers receive professional development to strengthen their subject knowledge, which positively impacts their teaching effectiveness. However, in a small number of subjects, there are concerns about the retention of important knowledge over time.
Reading development is a priority, with explicit phonics teaching starting in Year 3 for those who need it. Pupils who struggle with reading receive timely support to help them catch up. The school promotes reading for pleasure and vocabulary development. Pupils with special educational needs are well supported, accessing the same curriculum as their peers and learning effectively.
The school also focuses on personal development, teaching pupils about relationships, mental health, well-being, and equality through well-planned assemblies and workshops. Pupils participate in various extracurricular clubs, enhancing their learning experiences. Behaviour throughout the school is exemplary, with pupils demonstrating positive attitudes and respect towards staff and peers.
The trust board and local committee are knowledgeable and provide appropriate support and challenge to school leaders. Staff feel supported, as leaders consider their workload and well-being. Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to recognize and report concerns about pupil welfare. Leaders prioritize safeguarding, ensuring it is a shared responsibility among all staff.
To improve, the school needs to focus on ensuring that teaching in a few subjects emphasizes the important concepts that pupils need to know and remember. This will help pupils retain more of their learning over time. Overall, Highfield Junior School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a positive learning environment for its pupils.
