Milford Junior School, located in Yeovil, Somerset, is recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 30 and 31, 2024. Under the leadership of headteacher Claire Laverty, the school is part of the Huish Academy Trust, which provides additional oversight and support. The trust is led by CEO Nicholas Heath and a board of trustees chaired by Jackie Bachrach.
Pupils at Milford Junior School express pride in their school, highlighting a strong sense of community and well-established pastoral care. The positive relationships between staff and students contribute to a welcoming environment where pupils feel supported and valued. The school promotes a love of learning through an engaging curriculum that includes memorable experiences such as trips to heritage sites like Stonehenge and various residential excursions.
The school maintains high expectations for pupil behavior, resulting in a respectful atmosphere where students demonstrate positive attitudes towards learning. They are encouraged to reflect on their behavior and strive for success, with rewards such as values wristbands that celebrate aspiration, collaboration, and resilience. Additionally, pupils have access to a variety of clubs and sporting activities, fostering leadership skills through roles such as school council members and peer mentors.
Milford Junior School offers a well-structured and ambitious curriculum that is carefully sequenced to ensure pupils acquire essential knowledge and skills. The school has made significant improvements to its curriculum, which may not yet be fully reflected in published outcomes due to previous challenges, including the closure of its original site. Teachers possess strong subject knowledge and effectively support pupils in understanding and retaining key concepts. However, there are areas where the use of assessment could be enhanced to identify and address gaps in knowledge more effectively.
The school places a strong emphasis on reading, with a well-planned phonics curriculum for early learners. Staff are attentive to pupils who struggle with reading, providing necessary support to help them catch up. Pupils express enthusiasm for their favorite books and authors, indicating a positive reading culture within the school.
Milford Junior School prides itself on its inclusive environment, accommodating an increasing number of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. The school accurately identifies individual needs and adapts teaching methods to ensure all pupils can successfully engage with the curriculum.
Despite these strengths, some pupils face challenges with attendance, which can hinder their learning and create gaps in their knowledge. The school is aware of the reasons behind low attendance and actively collaborates with families to improve this situation. Continued efforts are needed to support pupils in catching up on missed work.
The school community values diversity and promotes understanding of important social concepts such as tolerance and democracy. Pupils engage with local initiatives, including partnerships with the police, to foster civic pride and an understanding of the rule of law.
Leaders at Milford Junior School are aware of the school's strengths and areas for improvement. The board of trustees effectively supports and challenges school leaders to ensure ongoing development. The safeguarding arrangements in place are deemed effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
Overall, Milford Junior School continues to provide a good quality of education, with a commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment while addressing areas for improvement in assessment practices and attendance.
