Thomas Harding Junior School in Chesham, Buckinghamshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 9 and 10, 2021. The school fosters a positive and engaging learning environment where pupils are happy and eager to attend. The atmosphere is characterized by a vibrant energy, with students actively participating in their education. The staff prioritize the well-being of each child, ensuring that they feel valued and supported. This commitment to student welfare contributes to a strong sense of pride among pupils, who thrive in this nurturing setting.
The school boasts a carefully designed curriculum that aligns with its core values of aspiration, success, pride, integrity, resilience, and equality. These values are evident in the daily operations of the school, creating a cohesive and motivating environment for both students and staff. The learning spaces are adorned with inspiring displays that celebrate academic achievements and the broader curriculum, reinforcing high expectations for student performance.
Pupils demonstrate exemplary behavior and interact harmoniously with one another. They report a safe environment free from bullying, expressing confidence that any issues would be promptly addressed by staff. The strong relationships between pupils and teachers further enhance the supportive atmosphere of the school.
Leadership at Thomas Harding Junior School is highly effective, with a strong emphasis on staff development and well-being. Leaders recognize that their staff are essential to the school's success and actively manage workloads to prevent burnout. The collaborative spirit among teachers and support staff is palpable, with a shared commitment to the success of all pupils. Parents express high levels of satisfaction with the school's efforts, highlighting the warmth and inspiration provided by the staff.
The school continuously reviews its curriculum to ensure it builds on prior learning, with teachers closely monitoring student progress and providing timely support. Mathematics exemplifies the school's approach, with teachers demonstrating strong subject knowledge and fostering resilience among students. Pupils work collaboratively, supporting one another in their learning journeys.
Students with special educational needs and disabilities receive effective support, with staff adept at breaking down learning into manageable steps. Leaders are currently focused on enhancing communication regarding provisions for these pupils among staff, parents, and caregivers. The headteacher ensures that staff receive appropriate training to deliver the well-planned curriculum effectively.
Reading is a priority at the school, with staff actively encouraging pupils to engage with literature. The school environment is rich with reading materials, and targeted support is provided for those needing assistance with phonics. Recent improvements in the reading scheme aim to align early reading resources with pupils' phonetic abilities.
Beyond academics, the school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities that promote personal development and cultural experiences. These opportunities cater to diverse interests and abilities, enriching the educational experience for all students.
The safeguarding measures in place are robust, with staff well-trained to recognize and address potential concerns. Communication regarding safeguarding issues is effective, and leaders ensure that all staff are suitable to work with children.
While the school has many strengths, there is a need to further embed planned improvements across the curriculum to ensure consistent quality in all subjects. Leaders are encouraged to ensure that new learning builds effectively on students' existing knowledge. Overall, Thomas Harding Junior School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
