Welcome to Dorothy Barley Junior Academy. We are a popular four form entry junior school which was graded ‘GOOD’ in all areas by Ofsted in 2023. We also have a 12 place Additional Resource Provision for children with Moderate and Severe Learning Difficulties on site. Our children come from a wide range of ethnic backgrounds and we value and celebrate the diversity and sense of community this brings to our school.
We are located in Dagenham close to Becontree Tube Station in the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham. The school shares a site with Dorothy Barley Infant School. We have a good relationship with the Infant School and all children from the infant school are guaranteed a place at our academy.
Since 1st June 2014 we have been part of the REAch2 Academy Trust (Raising Educational Achievement for Children). This is primary charitable trust and a family of primary academies that have strong reputations for delivering outstanding education for all pupils.
In February 2017 the school was awarded the Inclusion Quality Mark, the assessor noted that ‘Dorothy Barley Junior Academy is an excellent example of outstanding inclusive practice.’ In January 2020 we were awarded the IQM Flagship School Status, the highest of the Inclusion Quality Mark awards in recognition of the fact that the school is ‘an inclusive school where all children’s skills and abilities are valued.’
In May 2017 the school was graded ‘Good’ in all areas by Ofsted. Ofsted said ‘Pupils have positive attitudes to learning. They behave well, work hard and are keen to succeed. Pupils get on well and respect each other in this diverse and harmonious community.’
In May 2018 the school was awarded the Social, Moral, Spiritual and Cultural Quality Mark. The assessor said ‘SMSC is regarded highly within the school. Not only is this demonstrated through the application of the Quality Mark, but also through the dedication of the staff and governors to ensure that all aspects of SMSC are shared, understood and reviewed.’ We now hold the Gold standard SMSC Quality Mark.
In March 2023 the school was again graded ‘Good’ in all areas by Ofsted. They said of our school…
This is a caring school where pupils are taught to include everyone.
One pupil, reflecting the views of many, said, ‘I feel like I matter in this school. The school makes lots of changes based on what we say to make us more comfortable’
Leaders have high aspirations for the achievement of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).
Pupils are happy and well cared for.
Classrooms and corridors are typically calm, orderly places. Pupils concentrate on their work. They get along well together in the playground.
Pupils benefit from a wide range of experiences beyond the classroom, including regular visits to local museums.
We look forward to meeting you!
Miss Leicester
Headteacher
