Audley Juniors School praised in new Ofsted inspection

Pupils at Audley Juniors School were praised by inspectors <i>(Image: Audley Juniors)</i>
Pupils at Audley Juniors School were praised by inspectors (Image: Audley Juniors)
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A Blackburn school where reading, writing and maths levels consistently beat the national average has been praised in an Ofsted inspection.

Audley Juniors School in Queen’s Park Road achieved a ‘strong’ standard in two areas and the ‘expected standard’ in four others after an inspection in September.

The 392-pupil school was praised for preparing children for ‘their next steps in education.’

The report said: ‘Pupils build essential knowledge in reading, writing and mathematics as they progress through the carefully sequenced curriculum.

‘As a result, they achieve exceedingly well. By Year 6, their attainment in national tests and assessments in reading, writing and maths are consistently above the national average. Attainment for disadvantaged pupils also exceeds that of disadvantaged pupils nationally.

‘Pupils present their work with pride and increasing independence as they grow. Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities and those who are vulnerable in other ways rapidly acquire the important knowledge that they need to succeed.’

The report said: ‘Leaders provide an exceedingly well‑thought‑out and ambitious programme that promotes pupils’ personal development and wellbeing.

‘Pupils are taught how to maintain both their physical and mental health. They learn how to keep themselves safe in situations they may encounter now or in the future, including staying safe online, responding appropriately to peer pressure and recognising the features of healthy, respectful relationships.

‘Pupils confide any worries in their trusted members of staff. Appropriately trained staff support pupils and families effectively in small groups or individually.’

The school was also praised for helping pupils ‘develop a deep sense of belonging in their school and wider community, and to understand the value of service to others.’

The report read: ‘Pupils develop a respectful understanding of religions and cultures beyond their own.

“They confidently compare and contrast different beliefs, deepening their appreciation of diversity. Pupils understand the importance of fundamental British values and relate them confidently to school life.’

Headteacher Susan Aldred said: “We are absolutely delighted with our Ofsted outcome and immensely proud of what our whole school community has achieved.

“This report reflects the hard work, dedication and commitment of our staff, pupils, governors and families, who work together every day to ensure that children at Audley Junior School receive the very best education and opportunities.

“We are particularly pleased that inspectors recognised the strong relationships, high expectations and inclusive ethos that are at the heart of our school.

“This outcome is a testament to the dedication of our entire school community and reflects our shared commitment to ensuring that every child is happy, successful and inspired to achieve their best.”

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