Laurence Jackson School, located in Guisborough, North Yorkshire, has recently undergone an inspection on June 18 and 19, 2024, and has been rated as good in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. The headteacher, Catherine Juckes, leads the school, which is part of the Vision Academy Learning Trust. The trust is overseen by CEO Simon White and a board of trustees chaired by Charlotte Irving.
The inspection highlighted the positive changes implemented by the school’s leaders and staff, which have led to rapid improvements. Parents and carers have expressed satisfaction with these developments, and many pupils appreciate the enhancements made to their school environment. Pupils in leadership roles are eager to share their experiences, and staff take pride in their achievements.
Behaviour among pupils is generally respectful, both in lessons and during social times, reflecting the high expectations set by the staff. Most pupils respond positively to the guidance provided by teachers, fostering a supportive atmosphere where students feel they can trust the adults in their school. The school has established bespoke provisions to support vulnerable pupils and those needing assistance with behaviour, attendance, or attitudes towards learning. The ‘Evolve’ program offers a calm learning environment, ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, can access the curriculum effectively.
The school encourages pupils to explore their talents in various areas, including sports, drama, and music, with specific clubs available for vulnerable students to help build confidence and friendships. The curriculum has been reshaped to be ambitious and thoughtfully sequenced, allowing knowledge and skills to build over time. While some subjects have more developed curriculums than others, teachers present content clearly and provide activities that aid in retention and application of learning. Regular checks on pupils’ understanding and constructive feedback are integral to the teaching process.
Despite the positive developments, the school acknowledges that there is still work to be done. Although pupils are learning and retaining more information, this progress has not yet fully translated into external outcomes. Some pupils struggle with reading, but the school has implemented effective interventions, including phonics support, to help these students improve their skills. Newly trained reading ambassadors assist younger pupils, and various events promote a love of reading.
The school has made strides in improving pupil behaviour, with most students arriving ready to learn. However, the number of suspensions has increased as the school adjusts to a new behaviour policy, indicating that further work is needed to align behaviour with the school’s high expectations. The personal development program is comprehensive, covering essential topics such as online safety and diversity, and the school’s career provisions are well-supported by external partnerships.
The trust has played a crucial role in shaping the school’s strategic direction, with a new governing body providing effective support and challenge. Leaders are attentive to staff workload and well-being, contributing to a positive working environment. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils.
To continue improving, the school must focus on embedding its curriculum to ensure all pupils make expected academic progress and work with families to reduce the number of suspensions. Overall, Laurence Jackson School demonstrates a commitment to fostering a supportive and effective educational environment for its pupils.
