Inspectors say “This is an inspirational school where pupils flourish and learning comes alive. Pupils who were asked to describe their school used words such as ‘amazing’, ‘beautiful’ and ‘brilliant’.”
Pinxton’s John King Infant Academy, a school described as ‘amazing’, ‘beautiful’ and ‘brilliant’ by pupils, is celebrating an Outstanding result from Ofsted following their latest visit.
Inspectors opened their report with a glowing paragraph describing John King Infant Academy as an inspirational school. John King Infants is one of three academies in Pinxton including Kirkstead Junior and Longwood Infant Academy, which shares its leadership under headteacher, Mrs Anne Ingle. The three academies are collectively known as The Pinxton Village Academies and are members of The Flying High Partnership multi-academy trust.
The report said of John King Infant Academy, “This is an inspirational school where pupils flourish and learning comes alive. Pupils who were asked to describe their school used words such as ‘amazing’, ‘beautiful’ and ‘brilliant’. They understand that ‘we are here to learn’. They are rightly proud of their achievements.”
Pupil behaviour is described as ‘excellent’ and goes on to praise pupils further saying, ‘They are kind and caring towards each other and respectful to adults. They are enthusiastic and attentive in lessons. Pupils understand the importance of trying hard and not giving up if something is tricky to learn. Pupils take great care when presenting their work and the quality of their work in books is impressive.’
Head teacher Anne Ingle said, “We are thrilled that John King Infants has been awarded an Outstanding rating by Ofsted. It is a wonderful school in a fantastic community; one which deserves the very best that education has to offer.”
“This result is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our pupils, staff, and families, as well as the unwavering support from our local community and the Flying High Partnership family. It truly takes a community to holistically grow our young people, and this recognition affirms the incredible collaborative efforts that make our school a nurturing and inspiring place for every child.”
Inspectors spoke of a wide range of activities available to pupils, designed to broaden their personal development, including sports, yoga, drama, mindfulness and coding. The academy was found to ensure all activities are accessible to all pupils; including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).
Staff are described as having ‘expert subject knowledge’ and the curriculum is praised as ‘ambitious’ and well planned, stating, ‘It has been designed to enable pupils to ‘LEAP’ into learning, by being ‘Language rich, Experiential, Aspirational and Purposeful’. The school has carefully considered the specific needs and context of the pupils when planning the curriculum. For example, the ‘learning mine’ approach to knowledge and skills is a mark of respect to the community’s proud former mining heritage. In lessons, pupils are encouraged to ‘dig into knowledge’ as they apply what they know to new skills and concepts.’
Inspectors praised staff for ensuring all pupils are supported to achieve, commenting, ‘Teachers give clear explanations and constantly check pupils’ understanding’ and that ‘If something is tricky, an adult will quickly step in or offer a practical resource to support learning.’
Provision for pupils with SEND is described as ‘strong’ with children’s needs quickly identified and supported, -ensuring pupils with SEND can access the full curriculum.
The early years provision at John King Infants is described as ‘exceptionally strong’ and that Reading is core strength at the school. Inspectors said, ‘Children in the early years get off to a flying start in reading, due to the school’s systematic approach.’ The school is credited with having high standard indoor and outdoor areas where ‘creative activities enable children to develop exceptionally well across all the areas of learning’.
Staff said they were proud to work at the school and praised the high levels of training they access through the school and its Trust. Safeguarding is effective at the school, and the school’s Governance described as ‘strong’.
Head teacher Anne Ingle said she hopes the report becomes a source of pride for the whole community. “We are deeply grateful to our community and to be part of the incredible Flying High Partnership, led by Chris Wheatley. We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to the inspirational Claire Stirland, Director of Education, whose unwavering support and guidance has been instrumental for Pinxton Village Academies.”
“Our children are fantastic ambassadors for their community, and it is a privilege for us to teach them each day. We are thrilled that inspectors were able to see this for themselves. Together, we will continue to strive for excellence, nurturing the potential of every child and making every day count.”
