Cockton Hill Junior School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 3 March 2026

Pupils are happy at this welcoming and nurturing school. They attend regularly. Leaders and staff are ambitious for all pupils to achieve highly, regardless of their personal circumstances or any barriers to learning. Leaders work well with parents and carers and external professionals to understand any barriers to pupils' learning. In lessons, pupils benefit from a range of support, such as personalised resources, that helps them to access the curriculum successfully. Pupils enjoy their learning and generally try hard in lessons. However, variability in teaching mean that pupils do not learn as successfully as they should. This is reflected in pupils' achievement in national tests at the end of Year 6, which has been inconsistent over time. In 2025, attainment in reading and mathematics began to improve as a result of leaders’ work to raise standards. However, pupils, including some who are disadvantaged, do not achieve as well as they should in writing. This means that they are not as well prepared as they should be for their next steps. Pupils are part of a school community that celebrates difference. They warmly welcome any pupils who are new to the school or country. Pupils settle quickly in school and feel like they belong. Pupils behave well. Bullying is rare. Staff are quick to sort out any problems that may arise. Staff know pupils well and make sure that their individual needs are met. This helps pupils to feel safe. Pupils learn about the importance of developing healthy and respectful relationships. Older pupils are positive role models for younger pupils. Pupils enjoy the activities that are available at social times. The outdoor play programme supports them to develop independence and social skills. Pupils enthusiastically take on roles and responsibilities, such as being members of pupil parliament groups. These help pupils to make valuable contributions to the school and to learn about democracy.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should continue their work to increase the proportion of pupils who attain well at the end of Year 6, particularly in writing, so that pupils are well prepared for their next steps.
• Leaders should ensure that the curriculum is taught consistently well across all subjects and year groups, and assessment systems are used purposefully, so that pupils gain a secure knowledge and understanding of each subject.
• Governors should ensure that they receive suitable information about the impact of leaders' recent actions to improve the curriculum and teaching, so that they can help to drive further improvements at pace.

Read the full Ofsted report (opens in a new tab)