Ofsted recognised that Westdale Junior School is a happy and vibrant school and the mantra of ‘work hard, be kind’ sets the tone for pupils’ experiences. Pupils speak positively of the school, telling the inspectors “the teachers have really high expectations for us but they are not bossy with it”.
Inspectors found that the school is ambitious for all pupils to achieve well, especially those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) and those who are disadvantaged.
The report also said that “pupils are motivated and reflective” and keen to play their part in improving the school. “The Pupil Parliament have well thought out views and are keen to share them with adults”.
Inspectors said that “‘senior leaders know the school well” and “the partnership between the trust and school is strong”, with staff feeling that their workload and well-being are considered.
The Ofsted team found “pupils are caring and considerate of one another” and that relationships between adults and pupils in the school are respectful. The curriculum provides many opportunities for pupils and they also talk proudly about the work they have done to support charity.
Inspectors noted that pupils behave well in and around the school, saying “there is a sense of order and purpose” and pupils reported they feel safe.
Ruth Kyle, Head Teacher, said: “Westdale Junior School is a great place to learn, work and develop for children and staff alike – and Ofsted could clearly see this during their inspection. As a school community, we are proud that our hard work and dedication has been recognised by inspectors.
“The inspectors were impressed with the attitudes and conduct of all our children during the inspection and remarked on how caring and considerate they are of each other. Our children truly embody our school’s values of being kind, motivated and challenged.
“As a community school, we recognise the importance of working in partnership with our parents and carers, and are keen over the coming weeks and months to engage more fully with the wider school community to strengthen conditions for learning, collaboration and opportunities so that our young people thrive.”
Christabel Shepherd, Director of School Improvement (Primary), said: “I am delighted that Westdale Junior School has been judged to be an Ofsted rated ‘Good’ school, which provides an environment for children to feel safe, develop, grow and achieve.
“I am extremely proud of the school community as it continues to evolve as part of the Nova Education Trust. We now look to the future as we further develop our educational offer towards providing a transformational education across all aspects of school life.”
Ash Rahman, CEO of Nova Education Trust, added: “Westdale Junior School provides an environment for learners where they are inspired, developed and motivated to achieve. I am delighted that it has received the continued recognition that it deserves.
“The school has performed consistently over a number of years above the national expectations for outcomes, and we are determined that Westdale Junior School can become a beacon school of excellence. We now look to the future of delivering our vision to create truly transformational education.
“Can I also take this opportunity to thank the pupils, staff, parents, carers, governors and trustees. The outcome is a great example of what happens when a community positively supports one another and works together.”
The full inspection report is available on the Ofsted website.
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