Pakeman Primary School, located in Holloway, London, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 12 and 13, 2022. The school is characterized by a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere where both staff and pupils take pride in their community. The commitment to respecting diverse cultures is evident, and staff actively engage with pupils and their families to ensure they are aware of the resources available to them. The school’s motto, “be the best that you can be,” reflects the high expectations set by the staff, who provide an ambitious and broad curriculum that supports pupils in achieving their potential.
Pupils at Pakeman Primary School demonstrate positive behavior and cooperation in their learning environment. They understand the expectations set by their teachers and follow instructions promptly. The school has a proactive approach to bullying, with staff addressing any incidents swiftly to maintain a safe environment. Pupils express that they feel secure and supported, knowing they can approach staff with any concerns.
The school excels in promoting language and vocabulary development, particularly for younger children. Staff work closely with families to assess the strengths and needs of children as they enter the school, ensuring that language acquisition is prioritized. The curriculum is designed to introduce a rich vocabulary that aids all pupils, especially those who may have gaps in their English language knowledge. The emphasis on reading is strong, with daily reading sessions and phonics instruction starting in early years and continuing through Year 2. This structured approach helps pupils who struggle with phonics to receive the necessary support to catch up.
Leadership at Pakeman Primary School is collaborative, with leaders, staff, and governors working together to create a clear vision for the school. Curriculum leaders have developed comprehensive plans for all subjects, ensuring that learning in early years informs later stages. While most subjects have well-sequenced programs, some areas require more precise planning to clarify how knowledge builds over time. Staff are encouraged to engage in professional development, and their feedback is valued in shaping training opportunities.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are fully included in school life, with personalized support plans in place to meet their individual needs. Staff are adept at providing tailored resources and breaking down learning into manageable steps, fostering a sense of achievement among these pupils. Overall, pupils exhibit positive attitudes towards learning, and lessons proceed without disruption.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities that enhance pupils’ personal development, including art projects and clubs such as gardening, football, and dance. Governors play an essential role in supporting and challenging school leaders, ensuring that staff well-being is considered and that the workload is manageable.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with leaders actively engaging with families to identify those who may need additional support. The school provides various learning opportunities to educate pupils about safety, including online safety and where to seek help.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Some subjects require a sharper focus on what pupils need to know and remember over time to deepen their learning. Leaders are aware of these areas and are taking steps to enhance the curriculum across all subjects, particularly in response to challenges posed by the pandemic. Overall, Pakeman Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, fostering both academic and personal growth.
