Talavera Junior School, Aldershot

What is it like to attend this school?

Pupils thrive in this highly ambitious and caring school. They benefit from the school's ethos of 'every learning minute counts'. Pupils develop positive attitudes to learning, doing so with focus and enthusiasm across lessons. Staff support this by emphasising the importance of trying hard and that learning requires persistence. Consequently, pupils grapple with tricky activities. This determined approach to learning and the highly effective curriculum help all pupils achieve well.

The values of 'Aspiration, Integrity and Resilience' are at the heart of this respectful school community. Pupils demonstrate these through their considerate and friendly conduct. They willingly help others through roles such as Talavera ambassadors, who support new pupils settling into the school. Individual contributions like these are recognised and celebrated weekly in assembly and through prized Golden Awards each half term.

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

The school's ambitious curriculum thinking is highly effective. Across subjects, the important knowledge and vocabulary that pupils need to learn is carefully arranged. New learning builds systematically on pupils' existing knowledge. This supports them in developing deep understanding. Important aspects of earlier learning are deliberately revisited, particularly those pupils have found most challenging. As a result, all pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), know and remember more over time.

Teachers have expert knowledge. This reflects the school's rigorous approach to subject-specific training for all staff. Teachers draw on this knowledge to break down complicated ideas and highlight common errors so that pupils develop accurate understanding. Across lessons, staff sharply assess how well pupils understand knowledge using probing questions or reviewing their work. They then promptly address any aspects where understanding is insecure. This helps pupils to achieve well, as they only move on to new learning when they demonstrate sustained understanding.

Leadership & management.

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