Brighton school heading in right direction (From The Argus)

Hertford Junior School heading in right direction

5:10pm Wednesday 6th February 2013 in News By Peter Truman

A school that was threatened with being put in special measures is improving but still requires improvement, according to inspectors.

Hertford Junior School was given the lowest possible mark by Ofsted in its inspection in October 2011 and was told it would be in special measures if it did not get better.

Its latest inspection has just been published and the school is showing signs of improvement.

The school in Lynchet Avenue, Hollingdean, has been graded as 3 or “requiring improvement” – one category above inadequate.

And in two of the inspection categories – behaviour and safety of pupils and leadership and management – the school was rated as good.

But there is still work to be done, with inspectors highlighting several areas of concern.

The report said: “Teaching has improved and is often good but it is not consistent and does not always lead to good achievement.

“Teachers do not consistently provide activities at the right level of difficulty for the more able pupils because they do not always have high enough expectations."

Staff efforts praised

Pupils’ writing and vocabulary skills were also criticised, with inspectors noting children were “not confident writers” and that “many have weak vocabulary skills and this affects their ability to improve their writing”.

But inspectors also praised the efforts of the staff in trying to improve standards.

The report added: “The quality of teaching is improving especially in mathematics and reading.

“Pupils are now reaching expected levels of attainment.”

Encouraging words

There were also encouraging words about pupils’ behaviour and the safety of the school.

Headteacher Joan Marshal said: “During Ofsted’s recent visit they saw improved teaching, good progress, good behaviour and good leadership and management of the school.

“Pupils were particularly praised for their behaviour and positive attitudes to learning. We agree we need to continue to improve teaching and to ensure progress continues to improve.”

As recently as 2009 the school was rated as good with some outstanding features.

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