Auriol Junior School, located in Stoneleigh, Ewell, Surrey, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection from March 3 to March 4, 2020. The school is characterized by a caring and inclusive environment where pupils take pride in their attendance. Students express a strong affinity for their teachers and feel secure within the school community. The staff at Auriol Junior School maintain high expectations for all pupils, encouraging them to strive for both personal and academic success. This supportive atmosphere fosters a positive response from students, who engage eagerly in their lessons and demonstrate commendable achievement.
Pupils exhibit politeness and attentiveness, actively listening to both teachers and peers. They value the encouragement provided by their teachers, which helps them articulate their thoughts and opinions. As students progress through the school, they gain confidence and contribute positively to their community, taking on roles such as playground buddies and activity leaders. The school has a strong anti-bullying stance, with students reporting that bullying is infrequent and expressing trust in the adults to address any issues that may arise.
During the inspection, the enthusiasm of the pupils was palpable, particularly as many participated in a performance at a local professional theatre, showcasing their talents developed through various performing arts clubs. The school offers a range of extracurricular activities that extend students' interests beyond the classroom, contributing to their overall development.
While the majority of pupils have a positive view of their school experience, some parents have expressed concerns regarding communication between home and school. School leaders are actively working to enhance this aspect to ensure that all parental concerns are addressed effectively.
The school has demonstrated strong performance in reading, writing, and mathematics, with pupils consistently achieving well over time. Leaders emphasize the importance of reading skills as foundational to learning across all subjects. Auriol Junior School has implemented high-quality reading programs, ensuring that pupils who require additional support receive the necessary assistance to catch up. As a result, students leave the school equipped with essential skills and a deep understanding of the texts they engage with, which in turn inspires their own writing.
In addition to strong literacy outcomes, school leaders have increased their focus on the foundation curriculum subjects, ensuring that pupils learn essential content in a logical sequence. Teachers are dedicated to helping students retain knowledge, allowing them to build on their learning over time. However, there are still some gaps in pupils' learning in certain subjects, such as geography, where vocabulary development needs further attention. Pupils appreciate the creative opportunities available in subjects like music and art, taking pride in their artistic achievements.
The relationships between adults and pupils at Auriol Junior School are notably strong, with teachers tailoring learning to meet individual needs. Leaders are enhancing staff expertise to support pupils' emotional well-being, and effective procedures are in place to identify and meet the needs of students with special educational needs and disabilities. Pupils with hearing impairments are successfully integrated into the school community, participating fully in all activities.
Behaviour in lessons is exemplary, with pupils engaged and interested in their learning. They have a clear understanding of bullying and recognize that while conflicts may arise, unkind behaviours are not tolerated. Adults respond promptly to any concerns raised by pupils, ensuring a supportive environment. Opportunities for pupils to take on responsibilities, such as being school councillors, are well-received, and students approach these roles with maturity.
The headteacher leads the school with determination, supported by a dedicated staff team. Well-structured plans are in place to facilitate ongoing improvement, and leaders prioritize manageable workloads for teachers, allowing them to focus on meeting pupils' needs effectively.
The safeguarding arrangements at Auriol Junior School are robust, with a well-trained team ensuring that all staff understand their responsibilities in keeping children safe. Leaders are aware of the potential risks pupils may face in the community and have implemented a curriculum that equips students with the skills to make safe choices.
While recent improvements in subjects like science and the foundation curriculum are evident, there remains a need for consistent achievement across all subjects. Leaders are encouraged to ensure that pupils build knowledge and skills over time, deepening their understanding and maximizing their potential.
