Cam Woodfield Junior School, located in Dursley, Gloucestershire, has been evaluated as a good school following its inspection on May 24 and 25, 2022. The school demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education, with leaders and staff showing ambition for all pupils. Students express enjoyment in their learning experiences and look forward to attending school regularly. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils are polite, respectful, and well-behaved, adhering to the established ‘Golden Rules’ and understanding the difference between bullying and conflicts among peers. Parents have noted the genuine care staff have for the children.
The school emphasizes the development of confidence, resilience, and character among its pupils. Pastoral support is prioritized, ensuring that students are equipped to maintain their physical and mental health. The school has received recognition for its mental health initiatives, including the mental health champions award. Pupils benefit from a variety of enriching opportunities, such as before- and after-school clubs and a residential visit for Year 6 students. These experiences contribute to their personal growth and pride in their achievements, particularly in sports, music, and leadership roles.
In terms of educational quality, the school has established clear key concepts for pupils to learn and remember, particularly in mathematics, where regular practice and application of knowledge are emphasized. Teachers effectively identify students needing additional support and adapt the curriculum accordingly. However, some subject curriculums require further development, as essential knowledge is not always clearly defined or broken down into manageable steps. This gap can hinder teachers' ability to plan effectively and assess what pupils need to know.
The reading curriculum is well-structured, focusing on fluency and comprehension through a diverse selection of high-quality texts. A new phonics program has been introduced to assist pupils in catching up quickly. The school is dedicated to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring their needs are identified and met through tailored curriculum adaptations and emotional well-being sessions.
Pupils receive strong support for their personal development, learning about respect, safe relationships, and the importance of diversity. They are encouraged to become responsible citizens, engaging in community projects such as creating a ‘breathing space’ in the school grounds. The school maintains high expectations for pupil behavior, resulting in a calm and orderly environment. Staff training focuses on supporting pupils' social and emotional needs, leading to a significant reduction in inappropriate behavior.
The well-being of pupils, parents, and staff is a priority, with leaders actively supporting staff to manage their workload and collaborating with parents to address attendance issues. The governing body effectively monitors the school's performance, providing support and challenge to ensure continuous improvement.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with thorough recruitment checks and staff training in place. Pupils are educated on safety, including online safety, ensuring they know how to protect themselves. Overall, while the school excels in many areas, it must focus on refining its foundation subject curriculums to ensure all pupils acquire essential knowledge and skills effectively.
