Meon Junior School, located in Southsea, Portsmouth, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on September 29 and 30, 2021. The school is characterized by a positive and nurturing environment where pupils feel happy and safe. They demonstrate kindness and support towards one another, fostering a sense of community. The school has established a culture where bullying is minimal, and pupils trust the staff to address any concerns they may have.
The leadership and staff at Meon Junior School maintain high expectations for their pupils, working diligently to ensure that they achieve academically and behave appropriately. Classrooms are vibrant and engaging, with pupils actively participating and collaborating on various tasks. The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, which contribute to the personal development of pupils. These activities include morning running and gymnastics clubs, as well as trips to various cultural and recreational venues, enhancing their educational experience.
Parents express strong support for the school, highlighting the positive atmosphere and the well-being of both pupils and staff. The curriculum places a significant emphasis on reading, with teachers assessing pupils' reading abilities upon their entry to the school. Those requiring additional support receive tailored assistance, ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs, can progress in their reading skills. The school introduces pupils to a variety of challenging literature, which helps to expand their vocabulary and foster a love for reading.
In addition to reading, the school has recognized the need to improve its mathematics instruction. Leaders have implemented new teaching strategies to enhance pupils' understanding and application of mathematical concepts. This approach aims to build a solid foundation in mathematics, enabling pupils to visualize and comprehend their learning effectively. The curriculum is designed to ensure that pupils retain knowledge over time, although there is still work to be done in clarifying the specific knowledge that needs to be remembered across subjects.
Pupils exhibit good behavior and attentiveness during lessons, contributing to a conducive learning environment. They show respect towards their peers and adults, which is evident in their interactions throughout the school. The school prioritizes the personal development of its pupils, addressing both their physical and mental health needs. A variety of clubs and activities are available to cater to diverse interests, ensuring that all pupils, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds, have opportunities to participate.
The safeguarding measures in place at Meon Junior School are effective, with staff working closely with parents to ensure the safety and well-being of pupils. Leaders are proactive in identifying and addressing any concerns, collaborating with external agencies when necessary. Staff receive regular training to stay informed about safeguarding practices, ensuring that they are vigilant in recognizing potential risks to pupils.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Leaders need to continue refining the curriculum to ensure that teachers are clear about the essential knowledge pupils must learn and retain. This will help pupils build connections between different subjects and enhance their overall educational experience. The school is committed to ongoing development and improvement, aiming to provide the best possible education for its pupils.
