William Barcroft Junior School, located in Cleethorpes, North East Lincolnshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 25-26, 2020. The headteacher's ambition and enthusiasm for student achievement are evident and have fostered a positive environment where both staff and pupils feel valued and supported. The collaborative efforts of the staff, governors, and the trust contribute to a strong sense of community, making the school a great place for learning.
The leadership team is proactive in adapting their plans to meet the diverse needs of pupils and their families. The pastoral support provided is exceptional, ensuring that students feel safe, valued, and cared for. Vulnerable pupils receive outstanding support, which includes various initiatives aimed at promoting emotional well-being. The school has established a culture of respect and kindness, with pupils demonstrating excellent behavior and a strong desire to meet the expectations set by their teachers. Instances of bullying are rare and are addressed swiftly and effectively.
The curriculum is designed to engage pupils and prepare them for secondary education. Recent changes to the reading curriculum have led to improved reading outcomes across the school. The staff create a joyful atmosphere for both learning and play, and pupils express positive sentiments about their experiences at the school. They appreciate the opportunity to explore new subjects in an engaging manner.
While the curriculum generally supports pupils in achieving well, there are areas identified for improvement. Leaders have made significant strides in enhancing the curriculum, focusing on what pupils should learn over time rather than merely selecting activities. However, in a few subjects, there is still work to be done to ensure that the curriculum meets the same high standards observed in other areas. The leadership team, including governors, possesses a strong understanding of the school's strengths and weaknesses, and they effectively utilize staff expertise to support teaching and learning.
Pupils enjoy their lessons and retain knowledge in most subjects, particularly in reading, mathematics, and art. However, in some subjects, there is a need for clearer identification of essential content and vocabulary to aid long-term retention. Opportunities for pupils to practice and build upon their learning are also limited in certain areas.
Reading is prioritized, with many pupils entering the school below age-related expectations. The school has implemented effective strategies to help these pupils catch up quickly. The curriculum has been adjusted to provide more daily reading practice, and staff are committed to extending pupils' vocabulary and understanding. The school environment celebrates reading, encouraging pupils to engage with books regularly.
The school is attentive to the needs of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities. Leaders monitor their progress closely and provide timely support to ensure they achieve well alongside their peers. A variety of extracurricular activities enrich the pupils' learning experiences, allowing them to apply what they have learned in different contexts.
The safeguarding arrangements at William Barcroft Junior School are effective, with a strong emphasis on pupil safety and well-being. Staff receive regular training, and the school community is well-informed about safeguarding practices. The pastoral team is particularly effective in supporting vulnerable pupils, addressing complex issues with confidence and care.
In summary, William Barcroft Junior School continues to provide a good education, with strong leadership, a supportive environment, and a commitment to improving outcomes for all pupils. The school is well-positioned to build on its successes while addressing the identified areas for further development.
