Kettering Park Junior Academy, located in Kettering, Northamptonshire, has recently undergone an inspection on February 27 and 28, 2024, and has been rated as good in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. This marks a significant improvement from its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. The headteacher, Ann Walker, leads the school, which is part of the INMAT multi-academy trust, overseen by CEO Helen Williams and a board of trustees chaired by Linda Brooks.
The school has a clear ambition for all pupils to achieve well, with staff united behind a vision that emphasizes the values of pride, achievement, responsibility, and kindness. These values guide pupils in their behaviour and attitudes towards learning, fostering a supportive environment where they feel proud to be part of the school community. Pupils are welcoming to visitors and eager to share their positive experiences. The school promotes good behaviour through a consistent approach to managing conduct, helping pupils understand the importance of making the right choices. They learn from their mistakes and support one another, contributing to a harmonious atmosphere.
Pupils demonstrate a strong sense of moral purpose, showing respect and tolerance towards others. They engage with British values and participate in educational visits that enhance their understanding of citizenship. The school encourages pupils to aspire to be the best versions of themselves, fostering a culture of inclusivity where everyone is treated equally.
Kettering Park Junior Academy excels in its reading program, ensuring that all pupils can read well. The school quickly identifies any pupils who fall behind and provides the necessary support to help them catch up. The reading curriculum is designed to build vocabulary and comprehension over time, with pupils expressing enjoyment in their reading experiences. Mathematics lessons are also well-received, with teachers adapting resources to meet the needs of all learners, ensuring that pupils achieve well in this subject.
The broader curriculum is thoughtfully planned, with a focus on building knowledge progressively. Teachers are knowledgeable and make necessary adaptations for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that links with prior learning are consistently made across all subjects to avoid gaps in knowledge. The school is committed to supporting disadvantaged pupils and those with SEND, ensuring they make good progress in their learning.
Pupils are educated on health and safety, including online safety, and they enjoy a variety of extracurricular activities that promote personal growth and community engagement. The school fosters a sense of community, with staff feeling well-supported and prioritizing the well-being of both pupils and staff.
The inspection highlighted effective safeguarding arrangements, ensuring that pupils are safe and well cared for. However, the school is encouraged to continue refining its curriculum to strengthen connections with prior learning and to ensure consistent delivery across all subjects. This ongoing work will help maximize the impact of the curriculum and further enhance the educational experience for all pupils. Overall, Kettering Park Junior Academy is making significant strides in providing a quality education and fostering a positive school environment.
