Berger Primary School, located on Anderson Road in Hackney, London, has been inspected and continues to be recognized as a good school. The inspection took place from November 19 to 20, 2019, and the findings indicate a positive environment for pupils. Students express enjoyment in attending school, feeling safe and inspired in their lessons. One pupil highlighted their eagerness to come to school each day to meet friends and learn new things. The school promotes a culture of respect and effort through its ‘Berger Together’ approach, which is appreciated by parents, carers, and pupils alike.
Pupils report that school leaders and teachers prioritize their safety and well-being. The teaching staff is skilled at helping students understand and retain information. The atmosphere among pupils is friendly and supportive, with many friendships formed. During lessons, students are attentive and collaborate effectively. While instances of bullying and poor behavior are infrequent, staff address any issues that arise promptly and fairly. However, some pupils may struggle to maintain focus when activities do not align closely with their existing knowledge.
The school provides challenging work for most pupils, with teachers employing a variety of engaging activities to bring subjects to life. These activities include educational visits, guest speakers, performances, and outdoor learning experiences. Additionally, there are numerous extracurricular opportunities available, including lunchtime and after-school clubs. Parents express satisfaction with the school, noting that children thrive academically and often exceed expectations, particularly in reading.
School leaders ensure that pupils receive a comprehensive and well-rounded education, fostering ambition among all students. In most subjects, teachers effectively plan lessons that build knowledge and skills. In the early years, children display enthusiasm and happiness, freely discussing their learning experiences. Leaders and teachers are committed to developing confident readers, with early reading instruction in place that sets a strong foundation. Teachers share their passion for reading, and pupils enjoy listening to stories and participating in reading challenges. The school’s library is well-stocked and inviting, encouraging pupils to choose books and engage with reading.
Despite these strengths, there are areas for improvement. A small number of pupils in the early years and Key Stage 1 are not always provided with reading materials that match their phonetic knowledge, which can hinder their progress. Leaders need to ensure that all children have access to appropriate reading materials. Additionally, in some subjects, the planning does not clearly outline the specific knowledge and skills that pupils need to acquire, which can lead to a loss of concentration among a few students when tasks do not align with their prior understanding.
Pupils have ample opportunities to engage in diverse and enriching activities, with school leaders aiming to cultivate responsible and ambitious future citizens. Students participate in visits to museums, theaters, places of worship, and sporting events across London. Staff encourage independence and responsibility, with some pupils taking on roles as school ambassadors. The range of clubs available, including multi-sports and art, further enriches the student experience.
Behavior in the school is generally positive, with pupils demonstrating good conduct in lessons and throughout the school. The headteacher and leadership team effectively guide the school, fostering a supportive environment for both staff and students. Teachers feel valued and supported, contributing to a positive team spirit within the school. Governors are actively involved and provide strong support for the school’s initiatives.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, ensuring that pupils feel safe and are educated on how to stay safe. Staff understand that safeguarding is a collective responsibility, and there is robust support for pupils and their families. Leaders are well-trained to handle various concerns and have invested in additional support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. The systems for vetting staff and volunteers are effective, and collaboration with external professionals ensures that vulnerable pupils receive the necessary support.
In summary, Berger Primary School is a good school with a positive learning environment, effective teaching, and strong leadership. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in aligning reading materials and lesson planning with pupils' needs, the overall atmosphere is one of support, engagement, and ambition for all students.
