Bedonwell Junior School, located in Belvedere, Kent, is recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on March 6 and 7, 2024. The headteacher, Debbie Fisher, leads the school, which is part of the Ignis Academy Trust. This trust is overseen by CEO Sue Brooks and a board of trustees chaired by Robert Alfred Weaver. The school has a strong reputation for providing a positive learning environment where pupils enjoy attending and learning alongside their peers. The students are noted for their good manners and courteous behavior, contributing to a safe and supportive atmosphere. Instances of bullying are rare, and pupils are aware of how to seek help if needed, indicating a strong culture of safety and trust within the school.
The curriculum at Bedonwell Junior School is ambitious and aligns with national expectations. It is designed to promote not only academic success but also the wider development of pupils. For instance, in geography lessons, students engage in practical activities such as planning routes to local landmarks, which enhances their understanding of the environment and fosters citizenship skills. The school encourages community involvement, with Year 6 pupils participating in local events, such as performing carols at a nearby church. Additionally, a variety of extracurricular activities are available, including performing arts, choir, and sports teams, allowing pupils to explore and develop their talents. The school is inclusive, ensuring that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are fully integrated into school life and have access to the same opportunities as their peers.
The curriculum is well-structured and sequenced, enabling teachers to effectively deliver lessons and support pupils in building their knowledge and skills over time. For example, in computing, younger pupils start with simple programming tasks, gradually progressing to more complex coding languages. However, there are areas for improvement. In some subjects, there is insufficient time allocated for pupils to revisit and practice key concepts, which can hinder their fluency and confidence in applying their knowledge to more complex tasks. Additionally, not all teachers consistently use assessments to gauge pupils' understanding before advancing to new material, which can limit some students' ability to grasp more challenging ideas.
The school has effective systems in place to identify additional needs among pupils promptly. Leaders collaborate with parents and external services to ensure that students with special educational needs receive the necessary support. Training for staff has been prioritized to enhance their understanding of specific needs, particularly in social and emotional development. This focus on training ensures that adaptations are made to help all pupils access the ambitious curriculum.
Reading instruction is a strong focus at Bedonwell Junior School. Pupils who are at the early stages of learning to read are quickly identified, and targeted support is provided to help them catch up. The school employs precise teaching methods and ensures that reading materials are well-matched to the phonics knowledge of the pupils, resulting in improved accuracy and fluency in reading.
The curriculum also emphasizes the importance of personal development, teaching pupils about respect and healthy relationships. Students are encouraged to express their feelings and raise concerns, contributing to a supportive school culture. Behavior in the school is generally good, with lessons rarely disrupted, as pupils understand the expectations set by the school.
Staff members, including those new to teaching, report high levels of job satisfaction and feel well-supported by school leaders. The governance of the school is strong, with governors and trustees actively involved in the school's operations, ensuring that they have a comprehensive understanding of its performance.
The arrangements for safeguarding at Bedonwell Junior School are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and their welfare is prioritized. Overall, while the school demonstrates many strengths, it is essential to address the identified areas for improvement to enhance the educational experience for all pupils. The school remains committed to providing a high-quality education and fostering a nurturing environment for its students.
