Darrick Wood Junior School, located in Orpington, Kent, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 12 and 13, 2024. Under the leadership of headteacher Andrew Kilgour, the school is part of the South Orpington Learning Alliance Trust, which is overseen by CEO James Turvey and a board of trustees chaired by Robert Sampson. The school fosters an environment where pupils are encouraged to treat each other with respect and equality, contributing to a safe and happy atmosphere. Staff members are attentive to the needs of the pupils, ensuring that appropriate support is provided, which reflects the school’s core value that everyone matters.
Pupils understand the expectations set for them and adhere to the school’s rules, with house captains reinforcing positive behavior. This structure leads to minimal disruption during lessons, allowing for effective learning. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities that engage pupils beyond the standard curriculum, including overnight trips and popular enrichment clubs such as archery and coding. Many pupils also participate in music, enhancing their confidence and resilience through performances.
Feedback from parents highlights the school’s warm and welcoming nature, emphasizing the importance placed on both social-emotional well-being and academic achievement. The curriculum is well-structured, outlining what pupils should learn and the sequence of instruction. This systematic approach allows pupils to build on their existing knowledge and tackle more complex subjects over time. Teachers receive regular professional development, which helps them refine their teaching methods and address misconceptions effectively. Pupils are given opportunities to recall and practice their learning, which contributes to their overall engagement and enthusiasm for new knowledge.
The school is proactive in identifying pupils who require additional support, particularly in reading and phonics. While most pupils read regularly, there are instances where some staff may not have received adequate training to effectively address reading errors, which can hinder the development of reading fluency for certain students. The school is committed to ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, receive the same curriculum and opportunities as their peers, promoting inclusivity throughout the school community.
Attendance rates are generally high, and the school monitors this closely, taking swift action to support families when necessary. The personal development of pupils is a priority, with initiatives encouraging them to take on responsibilities within the school and engage with the community. The school emphasizes the importance of mental and physical health, providing education on staying safe online and supporting the well-being of both pupils and staff.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all. The inspection highlighted areas for improvement, particularly in training staff to accurately check reading errors and teach strategies for independent reading. Overall, Darrick Wood Junior School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience, with a clear focus on both academic and personal development for its pupils. The school’s commitment to fostering a positive learning environment is evident in its practices and the feedback from the school community.
