Ofsted conducted a short inspection of Baden-Powell and St Peter’s Church of England Junior School on 11 June 2019, following the previous inspection in October 2014, which rated the school as good. The findings indicate that the school continues to maintain a good standard of education. The leadership team has successfully upheld the quality of education, fostering an environment of enjoyment and inspiration. Pupils demonstrate a strong willingness to attend school, engage actively in their learning, and exhibit respectful behavior. The inclusive leadership has cultivated a harmonious staff team, resulting in strong relationships between staff and pupils, contributing to a vibrant school atmosphere. Parents express high regard for the school, highlighting the leadership, teaching quality, and the caring environment.
Since the last inspection, significant improvements have been made in pupils’ reading, with progress exceeding the national average. Pupils are exposed to a diverse range of texts, including Shakespeare and Beowulf, which not only prepares them for future educational steps but also enhances their understanding of literary history and British culture. The school provides reading lists for pupils and parents, promoting reading at home.
The leadership has effectively trained year leaders to monitor the work of teachers and pupils, utilizing assessment information to support those who may be falling behind. English and mathematics leaders ensure that the curriculum is well-planned and supports teachers in delivering effective lessons. While progress in reading and mathematics is evident, writing remains an area for improvement. The school has been part of the Harbourside Learning Partnership since 2016, benefiting from shared expertise within the multi-academy trust. The governing body, comprising new members with complementary skills, actively supports the school’s development and ensures that funding is utilized effectively.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with a culture of risk management established by the leadership team. Staff undergo regular training in child protection, and stringent checks are in place for staff and volunteers. The school prioritizes pupil safety and well-being, ensuring that all staff are equipped to protect pupils from various risks.
The inspection focused on writing, which has been identified as a weaker area despite overall improvements. The curriculum supports writing development in English, but opportunities in other subjects are limited. While some pupils demonstrate strong writing skills, others struggle with basic punctuation and spelling. Inconsistent teacher feedback contributes to ongoing mistakes. Additionally, there is a lack of clear expectations regarding handwriting and presentation, which affects pupils' writing skills and stamina.
The school is aware of the gender imbalance in certain year groups, with boys historically underachieving in writing. Initiatives have been implemented to engage both boys and girls, and there is a recognition of the need to expand writing opportunities across subjects. The deputy headteacher oversees pupil premium funding, focusing on improving attendance and emotional well-being for disadvantaged pupils. Parental engagement is being enhanced through an online system that provides regular updates on pupil progress.
The school has implemented a successful small-group intervention program called conferencing, which addresses specific learning needs and helps pupils reintegrate into the classroom with confidence. However, this level of tailored support is not consistently present in everyday teaching, highlighting the need for ongoing development in this area. The school is committed to improving teaching quality and ensuring that all pupils receive the support they need to succeed.
