Prior Weston Primary School and Children's Centre, located in London, received a Good rating in its recent inspection conducted on September 13 and 14, 2022. This marked a significant improvement from its previous inspection, which rated the school as requiring improvement. The school is recognized for its ambitious leadership and commitment to ensuring that all pupils succeed academically. Staff members are well-acquainted with the pupils, fostering a supportive environment that encourages learning and personal growth.
The school is inclusive, welcoming pupils from diverse backgrounds and actively working to eliminate barriers to learning. Pupils report feeling happy and safe, with a strong anti-bullying culture in place. They are encouraged to communicate openly with adults regarding any concerns. The school promotes a sense of community, with pupils supporting one another and participating in various extracurricular activities, including clubs that enhance their educational experience beyond the classroom.
Pupils understand the school's values, emphasizing respect and the importance of striving for personal excellence. Parents and carers have noted the positive changes implemented by the leadership team, with many expressing satisfaction with their children's progress and overall experience at the school. The school also provides numerous enrichment opportunities, such as musical performances and educational trips to local museums, which help broaden pupils' understanding of the world.
The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, particularly in the early years, where leaders focus on developing communication and language skills. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that the curriculum is consistently sequenced across all subjects. Some subjects lack clarity regarding the key knowledge pupils need to acquire over time, which can hinder their ability to build on prior learning effectively.
Staff training is a priority, with leaders supporting teachers in enhancing their subject knowledge. While most staff effectively use their expertise to help pupils develop subject-specific vocabulary, there are instances where prior learning is not adequately assessed before introducing new content. This oversight can lead to gaps in knowledge retention among some pupils.
The school maintains high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. These pupils receive tailored support from skilled staff, ensuring that their individual needs are met. Behaviour expectations are established early, with children in the early years demonstrating an understanding of routines and respect for one another.
Reading is prioritized, with strong phonics instruction in place. Children in the early years receive effective support in developing their reading skills, and pupils engage in regular reading activities, including daily story times. The school has improved its reading resources and encourages parental involvement in supporting children's reading at home.
Pupils are encouraged to take on various roles within the school, such as participating in the school council, and are educated about healthy living and fitness. The curriculum is designed to prepare pupils for life in modern Britain, incorporating lessons on diverse faiths and beliefs, as well as opportunities for local excursions to enhance their learning experiences.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to potential risks. Leaders maintain strong relationships with families requiring additional support, ensuring timely assistance when needed. Pupils are educated on personal safety, including internet safety, to help them navigate potential dangers.
To further improve, the school must ensure that all subjects have clearly defined curriculum plans that allow pupils to build knowledge securely over time. Additionally, teachers should routinely check pupils' understanding to address any learning gaps effectively.
