Saint Jerome Church of England Bilingual School, located in Harrow, Middlesex, has received a positive inspection report, reflecting its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on November 23 and 24, 2022, and highlighted several strengths across various aspects of the school. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good. This marks a significant improvement from the previous inspection, which indicated that the school required improvement.
Pupils at the school enjoy attending due to the calm and friendly atmosphere fostered by the staff. They are eager to learn and appreciate the support they receive from teachers, who provide helpful tips to aid in their understanding of important concepts. The school has high expectations for its pupils, encouraging them to excel in a diverse range of subjects. A notable emphasis is placed on learning French, which is integrated into various aspects of school life. The school mascot, Camembear, plays a role in motivating students to engage with the French language, and pupils quickly develop their language skills from an early age.
The school provides additional support for pupils who join at non-standard times, ensuring they can catch up with their peers. Year 6 pupils recently enjoyed a residential trip to Paris, where they met their pen friends, further enhancing their language learning experience. The school promotes emotional well-being, teaching pupils to express their feelings and be kind to one another. Respectful behavior is evident among pupils, who are supported by staff in resolving conflicts and addressing any instances of bullying.
Leaders have carefully considered the curriculum, ensuring that it meets the national standards while also providing a breadth of knowledge and skills. Subject leaders monitor the curriculum's implementation, and teachers are equipped to support pupils who may need additional help. The French curriculum is particularly strong, offering ambitious opportunities for language development, including workshops on multilingual poetry and storytelling.
While the majority of teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge, there are instances where this could be improved to better address pupils' misconceptions. The school is committed to ongoing professional development to enhance teachers' expertise across all subjects. Pupils are engaged and attentive in class, with minimal disruptions to the learning process.
The school also emphasizes the importance of understanding different cultures and religions, providing opportunities for pupils to explore ethical issues and participate in diverse cultural experiences. Environmental awareness is promoted through various clubs, and pupils learn about maintaining their physical health and the dangers of substance misuse.
Staff feel well-supported by school leaders, who take steps to reduce workload and promote well-being. The governing body is actively involved in the school's operations and recognizes the importance of engaging with parents and carers. Feedback from parents indicates a high level of satisfaction with the school's performance.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with trained leaders ensuring that staff are up-to-date on safeguarding protocols. The curriculum includes elements of safeguarding, teaching pupils to recognize safe and unsafe situations, particularly in online contexts.
Overall, the school has made significant strides since its last inspection, demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement and providing a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils. The focus on bilingual education, emotional well-being, and cultural diversity contributes to a well-rounded educational experience.
