Sharmans Cross Junior School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Key findings

¦ Sharmans Cross is a good school with many strengths. It is not outstanding because there remain some inconsistencies in the quality of teaching. In addition, although there are strong and effective assessment systems in place for reading, writing and mathematics, this is not yet the case for other subjects.

¦ Achievement is good. By the end of Year 6 attainment in reading, writing and mathematics is significantly above average and pupils' progress from their starting points is good. These high standards have been maintained over the last three years.

¦ Teaching is good. Teachers use curricular themes imaginatively so that pupils are engaged and excited by activities. The emphasis on reading,... writing and on problem solving across the school effectively increases pupils' confidence and develops their communication and social skills.

In a small minority of lessons observed, however, after a brisk start, the pace of learning slowed and pupils made only satisfactory progress with their tasks. Teachers' marking provides good guidance to pupils about how to improve their work and there is a strong focus on pupil self-assessment. ¦ Behaviour is good.

Pupils typically behave well in lessons and say that learning is fun. Attendance is well above average. Pupils have very positive attitudes towards learning, work well with others and are courteous and polite.

They say they feel safe in school. ¦ The headteacher, senior staff and the governing body monitor the school's work closely and provide clear direction. Actions taken to address weaknesses identified at the last inspection have proved successful, providing a clear indication of the school's good capacity to improve further.

The monitoring and performance management by the senior leadership team have had a positive impact upon improving the quality of teaching and learning and the use of assessment. The school provides effective, carefully tailored support for disabled pupils and those with special educational needs.

Information about the school

Sharmans Cross is a larger than average Junior school.

Only a small proportion of pupils are known to be eligible for free school meals. The proportion of pupils from minority ethnic backgrounds is broadly average, although the proportion of pupils for whom English is an additional language is below average. The proportion of disabled pupils and those who have special educational needs is below the national average.

Currently, two children have a statement of additional need. The school meets the government's current floor standards, which set the minimum expectations for pupils' attainment and progress. The school has achieved the Healthy Schools award.