Addison Primary School, located in Hammersmith, London, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 11 and 12, 2020. The school is characterized by a warm and vibrant atmosphere created by its senior leaders, which contributes to a positive experience for pupils. Students express a strong sense of safety and happiness within the school environment, and parents and carers show overwhelming support for the institution. The school’s core values align with the high expectations set by its leaders, emphasizing resilience and the importance of trying one’s best.
Pupils enjoy their interactions with teachers and appreciate the variety of well-supervised activities available during break times. Sports and competitive events are particularly popular among students, who demonstrate good behavior and a zero-tolerance approach to bullying. Any instances of poor behavior are effectively managed, ensuring a conducive learning environment.
The leadership at Addison Primary School is ambitious, particularly in prioritizing reading. Lessons are designed to be engaging, and pupils are attentive and focused during instruction. Teachers meticulously plan learning experiences, which helps develop pupils’ skills and knowledge across a broad range of subjects. Disadvantaged pupils are making significant progress, and those with special educational needs and disabilities are also achieving well. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that all subjects build on prior knowledge effectively.
Pupils are encouraged to take on additional responsibilities, such as serving as school councillors or playtime monitors, which fosters a sense of community and leadership among them. The curriculum is broad and ambitious, with most pupils achieving well relative to their starting points. Teachers structure lessons logically, allowing students to build on previous learning. While pupils retain important knowledge from subjects like reading and geography, there are inconsistencies in how effectively learning builds in subjects such as science and physical education.
Reading is a focal point at Addison Primary School, with each classroom featuring an inviting reading area. Staff prioritize teaching reading from the early years, helping children recognize sounds and read words. Various initiatives, including story times and reading challenges, engage pupils and foster a love for books. Daily phonics lessons ensure that any pupils falling behind receive additional support to catch up. Older students demonstrate a strong knowledge of the books they read and engage in discussions about character development and author techniques.
In geography, teachers ensure that pupils build on their previous knowledge, helping them make connections between past and current learning. For instance, older pupils apply their understanding of continents and oceans to plot trade routes accurately. In science, while early years pupils utilize their growing knowledge effectively, older pupils sometimes struggle to connect new learning with prior knowledge due to gaps in subject leadership and teacher expertise.
Pupils generally meet the expectations for good behavior, supported by fair and consistent rules established by adults. The school promotes social skills, moral understanding, and cultural awareness through various activities, fostering a strong sense of right and wrong among students. Pupils listen attentively to one another and collaborate well, appreciating the care and support provided by staff. Attendance has improved, with leaders actively working to support families facing challenges.
Governors are aware of the school’s strengths and areas for improvement, asking pertinent questions to ensure ongoing development. Staff feel supported by leaders who are mindful of their workload and well-being. The safeguarding arrangements at Addison Primary School are effective, with a strong emphasis on pupil welfare and safety. Staff are well-trained to recognize and respond to safeguarding concerns, ensuring that risks to vulnerable pupils are minimized.
Despite the school’s strengths, there are areas that require attention. The curriculum in some subjects lacks coherent planning and sequencing, which hinders pupils' ability to retain knowledge. Leaders must ensure that all subjects are logically planned to build on previous learning effectively. Additionally, some subject leaders are new to their roles and require support to develop their expertise, enabling teachers to challenge and support all pupils effectively. Overall, Addison Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a commitment to improvement and the well-being of its pupils.
