Bligh Primary School (Juniors) located in Strood, Rochester, Kent, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on June 21 and 22, 2023. The school is characterized by a welcoming and caring environment where pupils feel safe and valued. The school promotes a culture of honesty, empathy, achievement, resilience, and teamwork, which is evident in the positive relationships among pupils and staff. Pupils express pride in their achievements and those of their peers, contributing to a supportive community.
The quality of education at Bligh Juniors is commendable, with a curriculum that is ambitious and well-structured. Leaders are focused on providing an engaging learning experience for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school has strong provisions in place for these pupils, ensuring their individual needs are accurately identified and met. Teachers employ various methods to assess learning and adapt their teaching accordingly, which supports the diverse needs of the student body.
Reading is prioritized within the curriculum, and most pupils develop into confident and fluent readers. The reading curriculum is well-organized and consistently delivered, allowing pupils to enhance their skills progressively. The school fosters a love for reading by encouraging pupils to explore a wide range of high-quality texts, which are increasingly challenging. Additionally, a phonics program is in place to assist those who are still developing their reading skills, ensuring that struggling readers receive the necessary support to catch up.
Pupils exhibit good behavior and understand the expectations set for them in both academic and social settings. They feel secure knowing that staff are approachable and attentive to their concerns. The school has effective measures in place to address any instances of bullying, ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all students. The ethos of being Ready, Respectful, Safe is well-embedded in the school culture, contributing to a calm and orderly atmosphere conducive to learning.
Leadership at Bligh Juniors is strong, with a clear vision for the development of pupils' character and personal skills. This focus prepares students well for their future educational journeys and life beyond school. Parents appreciate the school's commitment to fostering resilience and confidence in their children, recognizing the importance of personal development alongside academic achievement. Pupils are encouraged to embrace diversity and learn about leadership through various roles and responsibilities within the school community.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas identified for improvement. In some subjects, the key knowledge that pupils need to learn is not always clearly defined, leading to inconsistencies in teachers' understanding and delivery of the curriculum. Leaders are aware of this issue and are actively working to enhance subject-specific training and support for staff to ensure that all pupils achieve their full potential.
The safeguarding arrangements at Bligh Juniors are effective, with a robust culture of safeguarding in place. The designated safeguarding leader is experienced and leads a strong team that is vigilant in identifying and addressing any concerns regarding pupil safety. Staff receive regular training to recognize signs of potential harm, and there is a commitment to ensuring that pupils receive the right support when needed.
Overall, Bligh Primary School (Juniors) demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education in a nurturing environment. The school is well-regarded by parents and the community, and its focus on both academic and personal development positions it as a positive place for children to learn and grow.
