St Peter’s Primary School in Hammersmith, London, has been recognized as an outstanding institution following its inspection on February 21 and 22, 2023. The school continues to provide an exceptional educational experience for its pupils, who thrive in an environment characterized by high expectations and a strong sense of community. The enthusiasm and love for learning exhibited by the students are infectious, contributing to a positive atmosphere that reflects the school’s vision and values. Parents, staff, and pupils regard the school as a unified family, fostering a supportive and nurturing environment.
Pupils feel secure and happy at St Peter’s, demonstrating exemplary behavior both in classrooms and on the playground. They show respect for one another and work collaboratively, with school leaders taking a firm stance against bullying. Any incidents are addressed promptly and thoroughly, ensuring that pupils appreciate the support they receive from adults. The strong relationships between pupils and staff are a hallmark of the school’s culture.
The school offers a diverse range of events throughout the year, which are highly valued by families. One notable event is the ‘gallery café,’ where the community comes together to celebrate pupils’ artistic achievements. The emphasis on creativity is evident, particularly during the annual arts week, where students collaborate with local artists, enhancing their learning experiences.
St Peter’s Primary School has designed an ambitious curriculum that outlines the essential knowledge and skills required across all subjects. From the early years, the curriculum is sequenced to help pupils retain and build upon their knowledge over time. For instance, in Reception, children learn to understand and compare various habitats, including the Sahara desert. The school maintains high expectations across all subjects, particularly in art, where pupils are encouraged to develop advanced techniques and produce high-quality work.
Reading is a priority at St Peter’s, with a strong emphasis on fostering a love for literature. Teachers select challenging storybooks to broaden pupils’ experiences with high-quality texts, and regular story sessions are held. The phonics program is delivered effectively, enabling pupils to read fluently and confidently. Teachers monitor progress closely, providing additional support to those who encounter difficulties, ensuring that all pupils can catch up quickly.
Pupils exhibit excellent behavior, showing consideration for one another and the adults in their environment. Initiatives such as ‘well-being ambassadors’ promote inclusivity during break times, ensuring that every child has a friend to play with. The positive attitudes displayed by pupils contribute to a focused learning environment, with high attendance rates reflecting their commitment to education.
The school excels in supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they achieve exceptional outcomes. Staff are dedicated to providing tailored support, enabling these pupils to access the curriculum alongside their peers through thoughtful adaptations and resources.
St Peter’s offers a wealth of enrichment opportunities, with a high level of participation in various extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and music. Frequent trips and visits enhance pupils’ learning experiences, and they express enthusiasm for activities such as farming and career exploration through local employer visits.
The school fosters strong partnerships with families, prioritizing communication and support. Staff, including those new to the profession, feel valued and supported by school leaders, who prioritize their well-being. The effective safeguarding measures in place ensure that pupils are kept safe and are taught about safety, including online safety, empowering them to seek help when needed.
Overall, St Peter’s Primary School exemplifies excellence in education, providing a nurturing and stimulating environment where pupils can thrive academically and socially.
