Following the inspection of Burton Joyce Primary School on 12 March 2019, it has been confirmed that the school continues to maintain a good standard of education. The leadership team, under the headship of Jenny Cook, has effectively built on the improvements made since the last inspection in June 2014. The school has successfully transitioned from special measures to good, and the leadership team has established a strong foundation for ongoing development. The appointment of new assistant heads has further strengthened the leadership structure, allowing for focused actions that have positively impacted the school community.
Parental engagement has significantly improved, with parents expressing trust in the leadership and actively participating in school events. The school has fostered a supportive environment where parents feel assured about their children's well-being and progress. The governance of the school has also evolved, with its transition to an academy under the Equals Trust, which provides robust support and challenge to school leaders.
Staff development is a priority, with leaders maintaining high expectations and investing in professional growth. The enthusiasm among staff is evident, and they are receptive to new strategies aimed at enhancing educational outcomes. Pupils are a notable strength of the school, exhibiting exemplary behavior and a strong motivation to learn. Their attendance is above average, reflecting their enjoyment of school life. Pupils have expressed their appreciation for the engaging curriculum and supportive teachers, contributing to a positive school culture.
The inspection highlighted areas for improvement, particularly in mathematics and writing. While progress in mathematics is being addressed through new teaching approaches, there is a need for consistent depth in instruction to help more pupils achieve higher standards. Writing remains an area of concern, especially for boys, who have historically shown lower engagement and achievement. The school is actively working to enhance writing instruction by integrating themes and class texts into writing activities, which has begun to yield positive results.
Safeguarding practices are effective, with secure systems in place to ensure pupil safety. Staff are well-trained and confident in reporting concerns, and the school maintains meticulous records of safeguarding training and incidents. The curriculum also emphasizes safety and well-being, equipping pupils with knowledge about online safety and mental health.
The early years provision, while still strong, has seen a plateau in the proportion of children reaching a good level of development. The school is addressing this by focusing on fine motor skills and letter formation, ensuring that children are well-prepared for future learning.
In summary, Burton Joyce Primary School is on a positive trajectory, with strong leadership, engaged parents, and motivated pupils. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in writing and mathematics, the school is taking proactive steps to address these challenges. The commitment to professional development and the focus on pupil well-being are key factors in the school's ongoing success.
