Upton Junior School, located in Poole, Dorset, underwent its first inspection under the Education Act 2005 in February 2023, receiving an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school, which caters to students aged 7 to 11, has established a welcoming environment where pupils enjoy attending. The strong pastoral support system in place fosters a sense of community, with the school’s values of aspiration, resilience, and curiosity promoting a caring atmosphere among students. Parents echo this sentiment, highlighting the school's friendly and approachable nature, with a focus on pupil well-being.
The leadership team at Upton Junior School demonstrates high expectations for student achievement, having designed a curriculum that engages and interests pupils. Students exhibit positive attitudes towards their learning and express enthusiasm for the diverse range of subjects offered. They are encouraged to embrace mistakes as part of the learning process, which contributes to their overall confidence and politeness. Behaviour in lessons and around the school is commendable, with low-level disruption being rare. When it does occur, staff respond swiftly to ensure that learning remains uninterrupted. Pupils are aware of what constitutes bullying and feel confident that staff will address any incidents effectively.
The school places significant emphasis on the wider development of its pupils, treating them as individuals and providing opportunities to explore different cultures and religions. Enrichment activities, including sports clubs and music lessons, are well-received by students, enhancing their educational experience. The leadership fosters a culture of teamwork among staff, who feel supported and respected, contributing to a positive working environment. Staff members appreciate the clear vision and direction provided by the headteacher, which has led to a strong sense of pride in working at the school.
Reading is a key focus, with most pupils enjoying it and understanding its importance in accessing the curriculum. The school has implemented a consistent phonics programme to support those who struggle with reading, and staff receive effective training to assist pupils in catching up. The mathematics curriculum is carefully sequenced to build knowledge over time, and while pupils enjoy mathematics, there is a need for more opportunities to apply their knowledge to problem-solving tasks to deepen their understanding.
In the wider curriculum, leaders have made strides in clarifying what knowledge is taught and when, particularly in subjects like history. However, in some areas, the specific content that teachers want pupils to learn is not sufficiently clear, leading to gaps in knowledge. The school is committed to ensuring that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are fully included in school life, with strong support systems in place.
Pupils and staff maintain positive relationships, and social interactions are generally harmonious. The school promotes responsibility through roles such as school council members and house captains, emphasizing respect for differences and the importance of healthy relationships. Governors and trust leaders share the same ambitions as school leaders, ensuring that staff workload and well-being are prioritized.
The safeguarding arrangements at Upton Junior School are effective, with a strong culture of safeguarding embedded within the school. Staff receive regular training, and pupils feel safe, knowing how to protect themselves in various situations. Overall, while the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement, particularly in enhancing problem-solving opportunities in mathematics and clarifying knowledge expectations in the wider curriculum.
