Tenterden Church of England Junior School, located in Kent, has received a positive inspection report, reflecting its commitment to providing a high-quality education. The school operates under the leadership of executive headteacher Tina McIntosh and is part of the Tenterden Schools Trust, which includes a board of trustees led by Clive Thomas and CEO Stuart Reeves. The inspection, conducted on 15 and 16 October 2024, evaluated various aspects of the school, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management, all of which were rated as good.
Pupils at Tenterden Junior School express happiness and pride in being part of a caring community. They feel safe, knowing there are trusted adults available to discuss any concerns. The school emphasizes values such as respect, faithfulness, perseverance, and love, which are reinforced through consistent rules and routines. This environment fosters good behavior and resilience among students, who are encouraged to work hard and engage actively in lessons. Teachers maintain high expectations, and pupils respond positively, participating in discussions and collaborating effectively.
The school prioritizes the mental and physical well-being of its students, promoting healthy lifestyles through education about fitness and nutrition. Pupils have opportunities to participate in various sports and benefit from partnerships with local well-being services, ensuring they receive necessary support. This focus on well-being contributes to students feeling confident in expressing their emotions and seeking help when needed.
The curriculum at Tenterden Junior School is ambitious and well-structured, with staff identifying essential knowledge and vocabulary for pupils. Students demonstrate strong fluency in number facts and a solid understanding of mathematical concepts. They also exhibit proficiency in various writing styles. However, there are areas where clarity regarding the timing of skill acquisition could be improved, as some subjects lack specific guidance, hindering deeper understanding.
Teachers possess sound subject knowledge and effectively check pupils' understanding, allowing for timely identification of learning gaps. The school is adept at recognizing the needs of pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, and adapts the curriculum accordingly. While most adaptations are effective, there are instances where they could be more precise, particularly in a few subjects.
Reading instruction is a strong point, with staff implementing a well-designed reading program that helps pupils become fluent readers. The quality of reading materials is high, and support is provided for those who struggle, enabling them to catch up quickly.
Despite the positive aspects, the school faces challenges with attendance, particularly among disadvantaged pupils, which is a concern for leaders. They are actively analyzing attendance data and providing support to improve this situation.
The school also emphasizes personal development through a variety of trips and cultural experiences, fostering mature attitudes towards diversity. Staff report satisfaction with the support and training they receive, and governance is strong, with trustees well-informed and aligned with the school's goals.
Overall, Tenterden Church of England Junior School demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and effective educational environment, with areas identified for improvement, particularly in curriculum design and attendance strategies. The school is well-positioned to continue its positive trajectory in fostering student growth and achievement.
