Dunton CofE Junior School

Overview

The report states that pupils are happy at school with "positive attitudes to learning" and feel safe. Leaders have established a "clear vision for the future" following a period of considerable change, resulting in high-quality training for staff and effective support for pupils with special educational needs.

Strengths

• Pupils demonstrate "good manners" and contribute to a "respectful environment" through clear routines.
• The school prioritises early reading, ensuring pupils become "fluent and confident readers" through well-matched books and strategies like ‘reading cafés’.
• Staff receive "high-quality training" and know pupils’ needs well, allowing for effective curriculum adaptations.
• Attendance strategies are working, with more pupils attending regularly and responding positively to school routines.
• Parents are "highly positive about the changes" and appreciate the communications they receive.

Areas to improve

• In some subjects, pupils cannot recall "practical subject-specific skills," preventing them from building on previous learning; the school must make these skills explicit in curriculum plans.
• There are a "limited number of extra-curricular opportunities," meaning pupils lack sufficient chances to develop their talents and interests; the wider curriculum planning requires review.

Safeguarding

The report confirms that "the arrangements for safeguarding are effective."