St Albans: Read Ofsted report for Garden Fields JMI School

St Albans: Garden Fields Junior Mixed and Infant School has received a good rating in its first Ofsted inspection since the previous school closed.

Headteacher Paul Sutton is proud of the school’s achievements. He believes it’s more than just a place for education.

Mr. Sutton describes Garden Fields as a home where children are inspired and nurtured. Every pupil gets the chance to shine.

He emphasizes that the Ofsted report reflects the dedication of pupils, parents, and staff.

James Latham, chair of governors, praised everyone involved. He noted the school is filled with happy, eager learners.

He hopes everyone shares his pride in the report, which highlights the community’s commitment to the students’ success.

What is it like to attend this school?

The school has a welcoming culture where everyone feels included. Pupils and staff share a strong sense of community.

Garden Fields focuses on developing every pupil. Students are happy, safe, and enjoy learning.

The curriculum is well-structured, helping pupils learn and achieve. Staff set high behavior expectations from day one.

In early years, children show kindness and respect. This continues as they grow, with pupils acting calmly and respectfully.

Positive relationships between staff and pupils are key. Pupils know they can talk to adults if they have worries.

The school offers emotional support groups, helping pupils build confidence and resilience.

Ambassador roles promote inclusivity and respect. These pupils teach younger ones about diversity and conflict management.

What does the school do well and what does it need to do better?

The school aims high for pupil success. The curriculum engages all students and makes learning meaningful.

In math, early years children practice counting and recognizing patterns. Older pupils build on this knowledge for more complex concepts.

Staff nurture curiosity and love for learning. They quickly address any misconceptions to help pupils recall knowledge confidently.

Pupils discuss sports knowledgeably in physical education, showing their understanding of skills like ball control.

However, some foundation subjects need more development. Pupils sometimes struggle to connect past and current learning.

Reading is a top priority, starting in Reception and continuing through Year 6. Books match pupils’ phonics knowledge.

The school regularly checks learning to ensure effective phonics knowledge building. Extra support is provided when needed.

Pupils love their school and class libraries, which help foster a love for reading.

Pupils with special educational needs receive excellent support. Their needs are identified early, ensuring they succeed.

Classrooms are inclusive, and pupils respect each other’s needs. Everyone is included in lessons with the right support.

The school maintains a calm atmosphere. Staff have high behavior expectations, and pupils respond positively.

Reception Year children quickly adapt, learning to share and become independent in their play.

The school emphasizes regular attendance for all pupils. Outdoor spaces promote mental health and well-being.

These areas, along with a welcoming school dog, help pupils feel ready to learn.

Pupils learn to respect diverse family structures and identities, building resilience and emotional understanding.

The new leadership team is focused on creating opportunities for resilience and perseverance among pupils.

They also prioritize staff well-being, ensuring everyone feels valued. Collaboration with other schools supports ongoing improvement.

While some changes will take time, the positive impact of the new leadership is already visible.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.

What does the school need to do to improve?

In some foundation subjects, pupils struggle to connect new learning with past lessons.

The school needs to refine its curriculum to help pupils build on previous knowledge effectively.