Short Heath Junior School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 29 November 2022

Leaders and staff have high expectations of pupils. They ensure that pupils gain confidence and achieve well. Pupils describe their school as 'a friendly place' and one where they 'learn to be successful in life'. In lessons, pupils behave well, work hard, concentrate and enjoy talking about their learning. Most pupils behave sensibly at breaktimes. They play together and share equipment. A few parents and pupils have concerns about behaviour. Despite the helpful support from staff, a small number of pupils sometimes find it difficult to manage their emotions at lunchtime. Pupils are keen to share their ideas with leaders for enhancing the lunchtime experience. Parents appreciate the care that leaders and staff show their children. Pupils feel safe at school. They can talk to an adult if they are worried about anything, including bullying. This is because adults deal with pupils' concerns quickly. The pupil leadership team and the subject ambassadors meet with staff and pupils to help improve the work of the school. Opportunities such as this help pupils to develop their leadership skills.

What the school should improve

• A few subjects lack the precise identification of subject-specific knowledge and skills that pupils need to learn in each year group. This means that pupils have gaps in their understanding. Leaders should work with subject leaders to develop the curriculum in these subjects further.
• Occasionally, at lunchtime, a few pupils do not adhere to the school's rules and expectations. Sometimes, this leads to boisterous play. Leaders should ensure that the lunchtime experience caters for the behavioural and emotional needs of all pupils.
• Some pupils take too much time off school. This means they are always trying to catch up with the learning they have missed. Leaders should continue to work with families and make sure that pupils attend school regularly.

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