Concord Junior Academy, located in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, has recently undergone an inspection on June 6 and 7, 2023, and has been rated as good in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. This marks a significant improvement from its previous inspection grade of requires improvement. The school is characterized by a calm and welcoming environment where pupils feel happy and safe. Staff members are dedicated to investing in the well-being of students, fostering nurturing relationships that support pupils in times of concern or worry. Students have expressed that the teachers are a highlight of their experience, noting their kindness and willingness to help when challenges arise.
The leadership at Concord Junior Academy demonstrates high ambitions for its pupils, providing a wide range of opportunities for personal interests and development. This includes various clubs such as robotics, pottery, and street dance, as well as notable achievements like the school football team competing at Wembley Stadium. The expectations for pupil behaviour are also high, with staff actively supporting students in making positive choices. As a result, pupils exhibit polite and respectful behaviour both in lessons and during break times. While some pupils report instances of bullying, they also acknowledge that staff are proactive in addressing these issues.
The school faces challenges with high pupil mobility, but leaders have implemented effective strategies to help new students settle in quickly. This includes additional support sessions and strong relationships with both staff and peers. Concord Junior Academy places a strong emphasis on improving reading skills, providing extra help for those who struggle, and ensuring that all pupils can access learning alongside their peers. Daily reading skills lessons are effective in enhancing vocabulary and comprehension.
Curriculum changes have been made to focus on essential knowledge across subjects, with reading and history being the most developed areas. Teachers are implementing carefully sequenced lessons, particularly in history, where prior learning is reviewed to reinforce knowledge. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the consistent implementation of the curriculum across all subjects, including science. Leaders need to enhance their monitoring of teaching quality to ensure that all subjects are taught effectively.
In personal, social, and health education, teachers utilize the local authority's approach while personalizing lessons for the school's demographic. Pupils learn about British values and demonstrate respect and tolerance for others. However, there is a noted gap in pupils' understanding of different faiths and religions, with some misconceptions present.
The governance of the school is a strength, with governors actively ensuring the accuracy of information provided by the school, allowing for effective support and challenge to school leaders. The safeguarding arrangements are robust, with a strong culture established by leaders. Staff receive regular training and are vigilant in recognizing signs of harm, ensuring timely and appropriate action is taken.
To further improve, the school needs to enhance the accuracy of subject leaders in checking the implementation of the curriculum and ensure that lessons develop pupils' understanding of various faiths and religions. This will better prepare students for life in modern Britain. Overall, Concord Junior Academy is making significant strides in providing a supportive and effective educational environment for its pupils.
