Temple Normanton Junior Academy, located in Chesterfield, Derbyshire, has undergone significant improvements since its conversion to an academy in May 2017. The recent inspection conducted in February 2020 rated the school as good across all areas, including overall effectiveness, quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school community, comprising pupils, staff, and parents, expresses pride in the transformation of the school, highlighting the quality of education and support provided to students. Parents have described the school as a safe haven for their children, reflecting a strong sense of community and trust.
Pupils are eager to learn and demonstrate good behavior, which is recognized and rewarded within the school. They enjoy engaging in various activities, including educational trips that enhance their learning experiences. However, while the curriculum is being improved, some subjects are at an earlier stage of development than others, leading to instances where pupils do not always retain what they have learned. The school provides a wide range of activities during break times, fostering positive social interactions among students. Instances of bullying are rare, and any conflicts are resolved swiftly, contributing to a safe and supportive environment.
The school excels in welcoming new pupils and fostering friendships, with older students assisting younger ones during lunchtime. Early years provision is strong, with children quickly adapting to the school environment and developing independence. Staff ensure that children practice phonics and understand numbers, laying a solid foundation for their future learning. The school emphasizes the importance of reading, with pupils enjoying access to an attractive library and engaging in discussions about books. Teachers are attentive to the reading needs of younger pupils, ensuring they read texts that match their phonetic knowledge.
In mathematics, lessons are organized to build on prior knowledge, and teachers are developing opportunities for pupils to apply their understanding to solve problems. The curriculum is broad, covering various subjects, including physical education, where pupils learn about diverse dance traditions. Leaders are actively working to enhance the curriculum across subjects, providing support and training for staff to improve their subject knowledge and teaching practices.
Pupils are encouraged to engage with their local community, participating in initiatives such as planting flowers in parks and making donations to local residents. This involvement helps them understand the importance of being active citizens and prepares them for life in modern Britain. The school is committed to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance to thrive alongside their peers.
The school has made notable progress in improving attendance, as families recognize the value of the education provided. Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to identify signs of risk and respond appropriately. Leaders maintain strong communication with external agencies to ensure the safety and well-being of all pupils.
While the school has achieved much, there are areas for further development. The curriculum needs to be more coherently planned and sequenced in certain subjects to ensure that pupils build on their existing knowledge effectively. Leaders are aware of this and are taking steps to enhance the curriculum further, ensuring that all pupils can deepen their understanding across all subjects. Overall, Temple Normanton Junior Academy is a thriving educational institution that prioritizes the well-being and academic success of its pupils.
