Shirley Heath Junior School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

What is it like to attend this school?

The school has pupils' best interests at the heart of all it does. It strives to develop the whole child and it does this exceptionally well.

The school meets pupils' personal needs and removes any barriers to learning. As a result, pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), achieve well.

Pupils behave consistently well in lessons and at social times.

They show high levels of respect for one another. There is a friendly buzz at break and lunchtime, where pupils socialise with their peers and play together. The atmosphere in the classroom remains harmonious, with pupils keenly sharing their views and supporting one anoth...er to achieve their best.

Pupils are proud to be a part of this inclusive school. A vast range of leadership roles gives pupils the voice to make a difference. The 'girl power leaders' boost the confidence of their Year 3 peers by encouraging them to compete in challenges outside of their comfort zone.

The 'wellbeing ambassadors' tend to pupils' needs when they have troubles and look out for anyone who is feeling lonely on the 'talking benches'. This helps pupils to contribute positively to the school community.

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

The curriculum is meticulously planned and sequenced.

It outlines the key components that pupils will learn and when they will learn them. Engaging activities are used by teachers to pique pupils' interests and to grasp their attention. When pupils struggle to remember, teachers use a variety of techniques to help close any gaps in knowledge.

Learning is adapted and content is taught in different ways. Pupils take pride in their work and act upon feedback provided to them. There are ample opportunities for pupils to practise what they have learned.

This helps pupils build on their knowledge and skills over time.

As soon as pupils start school, they are immersed into a world of literature. Careful thought is given to the diverse range of books selected for pupils to read.

This includes books for enjoyment, those that provide challenge and some that are matched to topics that pupils are learning about. Bespoke support is provided to pupils who struggle with reading, helping them to catch up.

Pupils with SEND are accurately identified and quickly assessed.

Staff receive effective training to meet the needs of these pupils. Interim support is provided to those awaiting a diagnosis. The 'nest' offers a safe and supportive place for pupils to seek guidance when they need support.

As a result, pupils with SEND are well prepared for their next steps.

The personal, social and health education curriculum is continuously adapted to meet pupils' needs. Pupils learn how to stay safe online, understand healthy relationships and appreciate and respect the diversity within their school community.

Visits to places of worship and talks from guest speakers enhance their understanding of kindness and empathy.The school provides a wide, rich set of experiences, such as dodgeball, martial arts, choir and coding club. Many pupils, including those with SEND, participate in these activities.

A highlight of the school year is the residential, where outdoor skills are developed, independence is fostered and challenges, such as rock climbing, are undertaken. 'Young Voices' is a favourite event, where choirs and musicians showcase their talents. A variety of vegetables, herbs and fruits are grown in the school garden.

Pupils in the 'gardening club' care for the plants, relax in the garden and are at one with nature. All of this helps pupils to develop their interests.

Staff feel valued and enjoy working at the school.

They report high levels of well-being and support from school leaders. The school has developed an effective professional development programme for all staff. This results in excellent subject and pedagogical knowledge being demonstrated in the classroom.

Governors have a strategic oversight of all the school does. They offer support and challenge to ensure that the interests of pupils are prioritised.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.