Ofsted praise for Linton Heights Junior School as its ‘Good’ rating is maintained

Linton Heights Junior School has been commended in a new report for upholding the standards highlighted in its previous Ofsted rating of ‘Good’.

Following a two-day inspection in February, Ofsted released a complimentary report, describing the school - just eight miles from Haverhill - as “a happy and harmonious community.”

The report highlights the strong relationships between pupils and staff, with inspectors noting that “pupils enjoy trusting relationships with adults” and “there is always someone on hand to deal with any concerns should they arise.”

The school’s wellbeing offer was also celebrated, as it “provides pupils with a better understanding of their emotions. This means pupils express their feelings confidently.”

The sense of care and respect is embedded within the school’s culture, with inspectors stating that “pupils show kindness and respect for one another. Pupils feel safe and well cared for.”

The staff’s commitment to academic excellence was also a key strength in the report. Inspectors recognised that “the school has high expectations for pupils' achievements. Classrooms are busy places of learning. Pupils work hard and listen attentively to their teachers.”

The report further highlights that “since the previous inspection (in 2019), the school has worked successfully to build an ambitious curriculum.”

Pupils at Linton Heights Junior School, it says, thrive in a collaborative and stimulating environment, with inspectors observing that “pupils enjoy working in groups. They contribute to class discussions with their ideas and are keen to find out about new things.

“This means they achieve well across the curriculum.”

Reflecting on the report, headteacher Caroline Webb said: “We are incredibly proud of this report, highlighting the dedication, enthusiasm, and hard work of our pupils, staff, and wider school community.

“It is wonderful to see Ofsted recognise the strong relationships, high expectations, and enriching opportunities at Linton Heights Junior School that enable our pupils to grow into resilient, reflective, and independent learners. We will continue to build on this success and ensure that our school remains a place where we can all learn and thrive together."

Inspectors also observed that “staff appreciate the support they receive to carry out their roles. The trust ensures all have access to high-quality professional development and training. There are clear structures that check the effectiveness of the school's work.”

Rachael Johnson, director of primary education at the multi-academy trust Anglian Learning, of which the school is a member, said: “We are thrilled that Ofsted has recognised the high standards and strong sense of community at Linton Heights Junior School.

“This report is a testament to the staff's commitment, the pupils' passion, and the ongoing support from families and the wider school community.

“At Anglian Learning, we are committed to enabling inclusive and aspirational learning in every classroom, and Linton Heights Junior School exemplifies this with its ambitious curriculum, strong pastoral care, and enriching opportunities.

“We look forward to continuing to support the school and its colleagues on their journey of success.”

Personal development is another standout feature of the school, with inspectors affirming that “the personal development of pupils is a strength of the school.” Pupils benefit from a wide range of enrichment opportunities, notably in music.

The report states that “pupils have many opportunities to develop their talents and interests. Music is a particular favourite of pupils.”

The school’s dedication to music education was further emphasised, with inspectors commenting that “all pupils learn a musical instrument while at school.

“Many join the school orchestra and perform for parents and carers and local organisations.”

Furthermore, pupils take an active role in shaping their school life, with Ofsted recognising that “pupils appreciate the opportunities to suggest and lead their own lunchtime clubs. This helps them to learn about responsibility and teamwork”.