St Peter’s Church of England Aided Junior School, located in Littleover, Derby, has recently undergone an inspection that highlighted its overall effectiveness as good across various key areas. The school, which is part of the Derby Diocesan Academy Trust, is led by headteacher Frazer Smith and has shown significant improvements since its conversion to an academy in March 2020. The inspection took place on 24 and 25 September 2024, marking the first routine inspection since the COVID-19 pandemic began.
The school fosters a strong sense of community, emphasizing values such as perseverance, courage, respect, and compassion. These values are reflected in the positive behavior of the pupils, who demonstrate pride in their school and adhere to the principles of being ready, respectful, and safe. The pupils are inclusive, looking out for one another and understanding the importance of British values. They engage in various reward systems that motivate them to excel, including earning house points and participating in assemblies.
In terms of academic performance, the school has made commendable strides in supporting pupils, particularly in reading. The phonics program is well-implemented, and teachers receive regular training to enhance their skills. The reading curriculum is organized and effectively taught, enabling pupils to develop a love for reading and engage with increasingly complex texts. However, the school has recognized the need to address gaps in learning and has introduced new strategies to improve pupil progress, especially in light of previous national assessment outcomes.
While the curriculum has been overhauled in recent years, ensuring that important knowledge is identified and taught, there are still areas for improvement. Some lessons do not align with the intended curriculum, and resources used may not always support the learning aims effectively. This misalignment can lead to gaps in knowledge for pupils. The school is encouraged to ensure that all teaching materials are consistently matched to the curriculum's intent.
The school also faces challenges in supporting pupils who speak English as an additional language. With an increase in the number of such pupils, the school has yet to establish a consistent approach to their integration and support. This inconsistency may hinder these pupils from achieving their full potential from the outset.
Leadership and management at St Peter’s are strong, with a clear sense of direction and shared goals among staff, pupils, and parents. The school has made significant improvements in a relatively short time, and the community is proud of its achievements. Safeguarding measures are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
In summary, St Peter’s Church of England Aided Junior School is a thriving educational institution that has made notable progress in various areas. While it excels in fostering a positive school culture and implementing effective reading programs, it must address curriculum alignment and support for English language learners to ensure that all pupils receive the best possible education. The commitment to continuous improvement and the strong leadership in place position the school well for future success.
