All Saints CofE Junior School, located in Matlock, Derbyshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on September 15 and 16, 2021. The school fosters a positive learning environment where pupils are happy and engaged in their education. They demonstrate kindness and respect towards one another, contributing to a supportive atmosphere. Pupils take pride in their school and are motivated to perform to the best of their abilities, understanding the expectations set by their teachers. The school's ethos, encapsulated in the aims of inspiring kindness, realizing potential, and valuing all, is evident in the daily interactions among students and staff.
During the inspection, pupils expressed their understanding of bullying and conveyed confidence that it is not a prevalent issue at their school. They are aware of the steps to take should they encounter any bullying behavior. The school promotes a culture of respect, with pupils emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and acceptance. The overall atmosphere is calm and focused, with students enjoying their playtime together.
Safety is a priority at All Saints, with pupils feeling secure in their environment. They are educated on maintaining safety online and are encouraged to lead healthy lifestyles. The school offers a variety of activities, including the popular daily mile challenge, which promotes physical well-being.
The leadership team and staff are dedicated to providing high-quality education. Over the past three years, they have reviewed and revised the curriculum to ensure it meets the needs of all pupils. The curriculum is carefully planned to build upon prior knowledge, allowing pupils to retain and understand essential concepts. Teachers utilize assessments to gauge pupils' understanding and tailor their instruction accordingly.
Teachers at All Saints possess strong subject knowledge and create engaging lessons that facilitate comprehension of complex topics. However, there is a need for improvement in clearly communicating learning objectives to pupils, as some students are unsure about what they are expected to learn. Leaders are aware of this issue and are actively working on strategies to enhance clarity in lesson objectives.
The school places a strong emphasis on reading, aiming to instill a lifelong love of literature in its pupils. The reading materials provided are well-suited to the students' abilities, and those who struggle receive appropriate support to help them catch up. The library is well-stocked, and initiatives like breakfast with a book encourage reading for pleasure. Daily reading sessions led by teachers further enrich pupils' vocabulary and comprehension skills.
Mathematics instruction is robust, with a systematic approach that reinforces knowledge and skills. Pupils regularly practice arithmetic and times tables, which contributes to their enjoyment of the subject. Their work reflects a solid understanding of essential number facts necessary for problem-solving.
In history, the curriculum emphasizes chronology, and pupils are beginning to retain key historical knowledge. Year six students expressed enthusiasm for their studies on the Industrial Revolution, showcasing their engagement with the subject matter.
All Saints offers a broad curriculum that is accessible to all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Leaders are committed to ensuring that these pupils receive the necessary support to thrive alongside their peers. Teaching assistants play a vital role in providing effective support, and collaboration with parents and external agencies ensures that pupils' needs are met.
The school also prepares pupils for life in modern Britain through various enrichment activities, including trips to the theatre and local church events. However, there is an opportunity to enhance pupils' understanding of different faiths and fundamental British values.
Governance at All Saints is strong, with governors working closely with school leaders to drive improvement. They facilitate a smooth transition for pupils from the federated infant school, ensuring that students feel confident as they progress to the junior school. Staff report feeling well-supported, and leaders prioritize their well-being and workload.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with a strong culture of safety throughout the school. Staff are well-trained and understand their responsibilities in keeping pupils safe. Regular training and briefings ensure that safeguarding remains a priority, and pupils are educated on how to protect themselves, particularly online.
In summary, All Saints CofE Junior School continues to provide a good education, with a strong focus on pupil well-being, safety, and academic achievement. The leadership team is committed to ongoing improvement, ensuring that all pupils receive the support and education they need to succeed.
