As any parent and teacher knows, the last few weeks of the Autumn school term and the run-up to Christmas is a particularly fraught time. Imagine how being on the receiving end of an Ofsted inspection might feel when imposed on a school during such a challenging stage in the academic year!
This was the challenge faced by Sue Lewin and her staff at Haddenham Community Junior School last term. Despite the timing, however, we are delighted to announce that following the inspection by Ofsted in December 2014, Haddenham Community Junior School has regained its 'Good' status, with the "Behaviour and Safety of Pupils" being judged as 'Outstanding'. The report, available to the public on 8 January 2015, notes that:
- Pupils enjoy coming to school and attendance is well above average.
- In all classes, pupils show great enthusiasm and a thirst for learning. They settle quickly at the start of lessons and sustain high levels of concentration. Behaviour in lessons is exemplary. Their behaviour is also very positive at playtime, lunchtime and around the school. Pupils' impeccable attitudes to learning and exceptional behaviour contribute to their good progress and high attainment.
- Pupils' skills in speaking and listening are very well developed. They respond with enthusiasm to their teachers' challenging questions. They make effective presentations to the class about their learning. Many are articulate and confident speakers who possess and use a wide vocabulary.
- Pupils are inspired and motivated by teachers' enthusiasm and strong subject knowledge. Pupils are impressed by their teachers and commented, 'Teachers help us to understand' and 'We always learn something new.'
- Pupils rise to the additional responsibilities provided, such as being on the school council, being an eco- warrior, house captain or a librarian. They appreciate the importance of helping others who are less well off than themselves and raise funds for national and international charities.
- Improved teaching successfully engages the pupils and promotes good progress for different groups. Some teaching is outstanding.
- The headteacher, key leaders, governors and staff have brought about considerable improvements to pupils achievement and to the quality of teaching since the previous inspection.
Mrs Sue Lewin, the Headteacher, said: "This fantastic result recognises the many achievements of our pupils and is a testament to the professionalism, hard work and commitment from staff and Governors since the previous inspection in December 2012."
"We are grateful for the support given by parents over the last two years and look forward to starting the journey from 'Good' to 'Outstanding'"
