Wensum Junior School celebrated as a "sanctuary for all children" following Ofsted inspection

Wensum Junior School is celebrating a highly positive inspection outcome after Ofsted recognised the significant improvements made across the school, and praised its strong commitment to inclusion, wellbeing and community.

Inspectors highlighted the school's "strong standard" for personal development and wellbeing, describing the school's pastoral care as a significant strength. They found that pupils are happy, safe and secure, and benefit from a carefully tailored programme that supports both academic achievement and personal growth.

The report praised leaders for creating an inclusive culture where every child can thrive, noting that the school is "a sanctuary for all children, regardless of background." Inspectors also recognised the school's work in supporting disadvantaged pupils, children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and those who speak English as an additional language.

Pupils themselves spoke positively about their experiences at the school, which is part of Evolution Academy Trust. Inspectors reported that children value the school's diverse community, embrace difference and understand that "there is more that unites them than divides them". The report notes that pupils are kind, respectful and compassionate, and that behaviour throughout the school is calm and orderly.

The inspection recognised the significant progress the school has made in recent years. Inspectors found that pupils' achievement is now typically in line with national averages as a result of improvements to the curriculum and attendance. They also highlighted that pupils with complex SEND make significant progress from their starting points.

Attendance and behaviour were both recognised as areas of significant improvement. Ofsted noted that attendance has improved and that suspensions are now rare due to leaders' actions. Serious behaviour incidents have reduced considerably, with pupils demonstrating positive attitudes to learning and strong relationships with staff and peers.

Inspectors were particularly impressed by the range of leadership opportunities available to children, from school councillors and sports captains to kindness ambassadors and school journalists. These opportunities help pupils develop important life skills and contribute positively to the wider school community.

The report also acknowledged the strong partnership between the school, parents and the local community, stating that parental perceptions of the school have improved considerably and that leaders have successfully "built bridges" with families and local stakeholders.

Corrina Peachment, Headteacher of Wensum Junior School, said: "We are incredibly proud of this report and of what it says about our school community. The inspection recognises the hard work, dedication and care shown every day by our staff, pupils, governors and families.

"We are particularly pleased that Ofsted recognised our inclusive culture and the way we support every child to feel safe, valued and successful. While we are proud of the improvements we have achieved, we are determined to continue working to strengthen outcomes and opportunities for our pupils even further."

The report concludes that leaders have an accurate understanding of the school's strengths and future priorities and that they have the skills and expertise to drive continued improvement. Inspectors also noted that the school's innovative work supporting pupils with SEND is being shared with other schools in the Trust and the local area.