Ramsey Junior School, located in Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, is recognized as a good school following its inspection in January 2020. The school fosters a friendly and welcoming environment where pupils feel safe and enjoy their lessons. Students take pride in their uniforms and express appreciation for the care and high expectations set by the staff. The learning atmosphere is engaging, and pupils work diligently to achieve their best, often receiving rewards for their efforts. Respectful behavior towards visitors is evident, with students enthusiastically sharing their learning experiences and the supportive nature of the school.
The behavior of pupils is commendable, both in and out of the classroom, attributed to the high expectations established by the staff. The school maintains a calm and purposeful atmosphere, and pupils enjoy their break times, aided by trained play pals who ensure inclusivity during play. The range of extracurricular activities available further enhances the pupils' experience. Concerns about bullying are minimal, as students report that it is infrequent and know how to seek help if needed, confident in the staff's ability to address issues promptly.
The school excels in its curriculum planning, with staff demonstrating a clear understanding of what pupils should learn. Subject leaders have organized the curriculum content logically, allowing for regular revisiting of knowledge, which aids retention and understanding. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in geography and the achievement levels in reading and mathematics by the end of Year 6, which are not as high as they could be.
Pupils exhibit excellent attitudes towards learning, with high standards of behavior and rare instances of disruption. Teachers effectively communicate expectations for good behavior, and pupils are polite and respectful. Those requiring additional support in managing their behavior receive appropriate assistance. The school's emphasis on reading is a notable strength, with pupils actively engaging with books and participating in events like World Book Day. The library is well-stocked, and reading sessions are designed to enhance fluency and comprehension, resulting in most pupils becoming confident readers.
Support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is well-structured, with a purposeful curriculum designed to meet their needs. The rainbow room provides a stimulating environment for learning, and well-trained teaching assistants motivate pupils to overcome challenges. The curriculum is enriched through trips and assemblies that celebrate pupil achievements and foster community involvement.
The headteacher's ambition and high expectations are shared among staff and governors, who work collaboratively to identify areas for improvement. The local governing body is undergoing changes to enhance its contribution to school development. Safeguarding measures are effective, with a strong culture of safety and regular training for staff to address concerns. The school community, including parents and carers, supports the staff's efforts.
While the school has many strengths, it must focus on improving the proportions of pupils achieving high standards in reading and mathematics. Additionally, the implementation of curriculum plans needs to be fully realized across all subjects. The local governing body is also in the process of reconstituting to better fulfill its responsibilities. Overall, Ramsey Junior School continues to provide a positive educational experience for its pupils, with a commitment to ongoing improvement.
