“Pupils love their school” says glowing Ofsted report

“Rapid school improvement” has taken place at Angel Road Junior School in Norwich, which Ofsted inspectors have rated as Good and Outstanding in its latest inspection.

All aspects of the school were praised on the visit in February, including the expert teaching, opportunities for pupils to enhance their wider development, and the consistently good behaviour throughout the setting.

The report said: “There is an exceptional provision for pupils’ personal development. Pupils enjoy leadership roles and have an active voice in the direction of the school.” Additionally, “There is an extensive range of enrichment and extra-curricular activities all of which contribute to pupils’ exceptional personal development.”

Staff at the school have been instrumental in improving the provision, with inspectors noting that “Teachers are kind and explain things well. They have high expectations for pupils’ behaviour and achievement.”

Inspectors also highlighted the school’s focus on all aspects of English: “Reading is of the highest priority across the school… the school has strong systems in place to support those pupils who arrive with no prior knowledge of the English language. These pupils are supported to rapidly learn to speak and read in English.”

There was praise for how the school works with children with SEND: “The school has strong systems in place to identify pupils with special needs and/or disabilities (SEND). The curriculum and learning environment are adapted to meet and support the needs of pupils with SEND. Consequently (they) make strong progress through the curriculum from their starting points.”

The school is part of Evolution Academy Trust, which was highlighted as providing “strong support for school improvement”, while “leaders at all levels have ensured rapid school improvement since the last inspection.”

Inspectors summarised their report by confirming that after spending four years at Angel Road Junior, “Pupils are well-prepared for life in modern Britain and for the next stage in their education.”

Debbie Henderson, Headteacher at Angel Road Junior, said: “I am so proud of all the amazing staff, children and families who have worked together to create a wonderful school for our community.”

Dr Craig Avieson, CEO of Evolution Academy Trust, said: “This is a wonderful achievement for everyone at Angel Road Juniors and particularly the local community. Children deserve the very best start in life, and we are all delighted that the academy has continued to improve in all areas, thanks to ambitious, hard-working and caring staff.”