Westdale Junior School, located in Mapperley, Nottingham, has recently undergone an inspection on December 13 and 14, 2023, and has been rated as good in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. The headteacher, Ruth Kyle, leads the school, which is part of the Nova Education Trust, overseen by CEO Ashfaq Rahman and a board of trustees chaired by Margaret Monckton. The school is characterized by a positive and vibrant atmosphere, with a strong emphasis on the mantra of working hard and being kind. This ethos is reflected in the curriculum, which provides numerous opportunities for students to understand the importance of these values, resulting in motivated and reflective pupils.
Students express satisfaction with their school experience, noting the high expectations set by teachers while appreciating their supportive approach. The school is particularly ambitious for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, as well as disadvantaged students. The pupil parliament actively engages in school improvement discussions, and students take pride in their charitable work. Behaviour at the school is commendable, with pupils demonstrating good manners and respect towards adults and peers. Relationships between staff and students are built on mutual respect, fostering an environment where pupils learn to care for one another and themselves, including their mental well-being.
The school has implemented a systematic approach to teaching reading, encouraging pupils to take on various roles during reading sessions, which enhances their understanding of texts. The curriculum includes high-quality literature and innovative methods, such as using drama to explore complex works like those of Shakespeare. The school promotes regular reading, supported by a new library that caters to diverse interests. Recent curriculum changes have been significant, although the school has yet to fully evaluate their impact. Teachers present information clearly and build knowledge progressively, using strategies that connect prior learning across subjects.
Westdale Junior School is inclusive, providing necessary support for pupils with special educational needs. Regular reviews ensure that these students make progress, and teachers receive ongoing training to meet their needs effectively. The school fosters a sense of community, with pupils playing well together and behaving appropriately throughout the school day. The recently revised behaviour policy is consistently applied, although some parents are not fully aware of the reasons behind these changes or the improvements in behaviour. Nonetheless, pupils report feeling safe and that bullying is rare and effectively managed.
Pupils demonstrate care and consideration for one another, understanding the significance of British values and tolerance. They receive well-structured pastoral support and learn about online safety and personal development. Senior leaders are responsive to the needs of the school and maintain a strong partnership with the multi-academy trust, ensuring timely support for staff. The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, contributing to a secure environment for all students.
To enhance the school further, leaders should improve communication with parents regarding behaviour policy changes and engage them more effectively in supporting their children. Additionally, the school needs to evaluate the impact of recent curriculum changes to ensure that all pupils retain the knowledge they have been taught. Overall, Westdale Junior School is a thriving educational institution that prioritizes the well-being and academic success of its pupils.
