John King Infant Academy

Highlights from Latest Inspection

What is it like to attend this school?

This is an inspirational school where pupils flourish and learning comes alive. Pupils who were asked to describe their school used words such as 'amazing', 'beautiful' and 'brilliant'. They understand that 'we are here to learn'.

They are rightly proud of their achievements.

Pupils' behaviour is excellent. They are kind and caring towards each other and respectful to adults.

They are enthusiastic and attentive in lessons. Pupils understand the importance of trying hard and not giving up if something is tricky to learn. Pupils take great care when presenting their work and the quality of their work in books is impressive.

There is a range of popular ...clubs and activities to enhance pupils' broader personal development. These include activities such as sports, yoga, drama, mindfulness and coding. The school makes sure that activities are accessible for everyone, including pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).

Trained staff are available to support pupils' social, emotional and mental health needs. Pupils are encouraged to talk to someone or use the class 'worry monsters' if they have concerns.

During their time at the school, pupils typically achieve very well.

They achieve above-average results in reading, writing and mathematics tests.

What does the school do well and what does it need to do better?

The school's highly ambitious curriculum is fully planned and sequenced in all subjects. It has been designed to enable pupils to 'LEAP' into learning, by being 'Language rich, Experiential, Aspirational and Purposeful'.

The school has carefully considered the specific needs and context of the pupils when planning the curriculum. For example, the 'learning mine' approach to knowledge and skills is a mark of respect to the community's proud former mining heritage. In lessons, pupils are encouraged to 'dig into knowledge' as they apply what they know to new skills and concepts.

Staff have expert subject knowledge. They understand very well how young children learn. Teachers give clear explanations and constantly check pupils' understanding.

For example, in mathematics, pupils could confidently explain what they were learning. They knew that a pictogram is 'a picture that has a key to help you find the answers.' In history, pupils were fascinated to learn about a wide range of famous people from the past.

If something is tricky, an adult will quickly step in or offer a practical resource to support learning.

The school's provision for pupils with SEND is strong. Pupils' needs are quickly identified, and appropriate support is arranged.

In lessons, staff adapt their teaching so that pupils with SEND can access the full curriculum.

Reading is a well-established strength of the school's curriculum. It is considered to be 'at the heart of everything'.

Children in the early years get off to a flying start in reading, due to the school's systematic approach. By the end of Year 2, almost all pupils are fluent, confident readers. Well-trained staff provide daily, focused support for any pupil who is at risk of falling behind in reading.

The early years provision is exceptionally strong. The well-planned curriculum provides children with a rich store of knowledge and skills for their future learning. The indoor and outdoor areas have been developed and equipped to a high standard.

Thoughtfully planned and highly creative activities enable children to develop exceptionally well across all the areas of learning. The skilled staff team prioritise children's language development by means of their own Pinxton Village Academies' unique 'PVA Talks' project. As a result of this excellent provision, children are confident independent learners who are very well prepared for Year 1 and beyond.

The school promotes pupils' wider personal development very well. The personal, social and health education (PSHE) curriculum covers a wide range of themes such as safety, healthy relationships, bullying and friendships. Pupils learn to understand a wide range of cultures and to respect differences.

The aim is for pupils to develop as 'great people making great choices' who are well prepared for life in British society.

Staff say that they are proud to work at this school. They value the consideration shown by leaders for their workload and well-being.

Staff also praise the high-quality training that they receive from the school and from the trust.

Governance is strong. Local governors fulfil their statutory duties and provide appropriate support and challenge as they oversee the work of the school.

All those responsible for leading and managing the school share a common vision and ambition for what they wish pupils to achieve. This is reflected in the school's aim to 'prepare for the future, value the now, achieve every day.'

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.