Ashbrook Junior School, located in Borrowash, Derbyshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 13 and 14, 2023. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils feel a strong sense of belonging and safety. Students express that they are well cared for and appreciate the kindness of the staff, who are always ready to assist them with their academic and emotional needs. This supportive atmosphere contributes to the overall happiness of the school community.
Pupils at Ashbrook Junior School take pride in their school and are encouraged to excel in their studies. The school has high expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to develop socially and creatively. The school offers a variety of leadership roles, allowing students to have a voice in school matters, which they value greatly. They feel that their ideas are taken seriously by the school leaders, enhancing their engagement and investment in the school community.
The school has implemented an ambitious curriculum with clear expectations for teaching and learning. Teachers utilize a consistent lesson structure and effectively model how to answer questions, which helps students understand what is expected of them. This approach, combined with a focus on subject-specific vocabulary, aids in effective learning. The curriculum emphasizes reading, with pupils frequently reading aloud and participating in discussions about various texts. Additional support is provided for those who struggle with reading, helping them develop essential skills.
Mathematics instruction at Ashbrook Junior School is designed to enhance pupils' fluency, reasoning, and problem-solving abilities. Each lesson begins with a recap of previous learning, reinforcing retention of knowledge. Teachers employ challenging tasks to encourage deeper thinking, allowing students to apply their mathematical skills in diverse contexts. The curriculum in other subjects is also well-structured, although some areas require improvement in the implementation strategies to ensure that pupils can recall key content effectively.
The school provides high-quality support for pupils with special educational needs, working closely with families to meet individual needs. Teachers adapt learning experiences to ensure success for these students, and support staff play a crucial role in guiding them. The personal development program is robust, promoting an understanding of different family structures and relationships, as well as celebrating diversity and equality. Pupils engage in various extracurricular activities, including community projects, which enrich their educational experience.
Leadership at Ashbrook Junior School is strong, with senior leaders receiving valuable support and challenge from the trust leaders. Staff members feel supported and appreciate the professional development opportunities available to them. The school prioritizes staff well-being and workload management, contributing to a positive working environment.
Safeguarding measures at the school are effective, with a culture of vigilance established among staff. Leaders are dedicated to ensuring the safety of all pupils and work diligently with external agencies to provide necessary support. Staff are well-informed about safeguarding procedures, and pupils feel secure in discussing any concerns they may have.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Some subject leaders are still developing their leadership skills, which affects their ability to monitor curriculum quality effectively. Leaders are encouraged to ensure that all subject leaders possess the necessary expertise to oversee their areas. Additionally, in some foundation subjects, the strategies employed by teachers do not consistently yield effective results, leading to challenges in content retention among pupils.
Overall, Ashbrook Junior School continues to provide a good education, characterized by a supportive environment, a strong curriculum, and effective leadership. The school is committed to continuous improvement, ensuring that all pupils receive the best possible education and support as they progress through their academic journey.
