Glenbrook Primary School, located in Clapham Park, London, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 12-13, 2021. The school has a calm and friendly atmosphere where pupils are polite and courteous. They engage well with their peers and show enthusiasm for learning. Since the last inspection, the school has moved to a new building, which has been positively received by the students, who appreciate the dedicated spaces for art, music, and outdoor activities.
The school emphasizes the importance of cooperation and tolerance, providing students with opportunities to take on responsibilities such as being school councillors and peer mediators. These roles are designed to build confidence among pupils. The relationships between staff and students are characterized by warmth and respect, with staff maintaining high expectations for student performance. Teachers deliver a well-planned and interesting curriculum, ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, have access to the same ambitious learning opportunities.
Pupils feel safe at school and report that bullying is rare. They are aware that staff are available to help resolve any disagreements. Behavior is generally good both in and out of lessons. The curriculum at Glenbrook is ambitious and organized, with a clear focus on providing a broad education. Leaders have carefully considered the knowledge that pupils should acquire at each year level, which has resulted in motivated students who enjoy learning and can articulate their understanding in subjects like science and geography.
Reading is prioritized from the early years, with daily phonics teaching starting in Reception and continuing through Year 1 and Year 2. Staff are well-trained in delivering a structured phonics program, which helps pupils become fluent readers. However, there are some concerns regarding the matching of reading books to the phonics knowledge of pupils, which leaders are addressing. The promotion of reading for pleasure is evident, with staff reading a variety of books to their classes and encouraging pupils to explore different authors.
In mathematics, the curriculum is well-planned, focusing on essential concepts and ensuring that pupils have a solid understanding of number and calculation methods. Pupils are confident in applying their knowledge to solve problems and enjoy explaining their thought processes. Teachers receive support from leaders to effectively deliver the mathematics curriculum, and regular assessments help identify and address any gaps in knowledge.
History and geography are integrated into class themes, allowing pupils to revisit important knowledge. However, there are instances where the focus on improving writing may overshadow the development of essential knowledge in these subjects. Leaders understand the needs of pupils with SEND and provide targeted support to help them succeed.
Glenbrook Primary School offers various experiences to support the wider development of pupils, including community involvement and charity events. Staff feel supported by leaders, who involve them in decisions regarding training and development. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to recognize and address risks to pupil welfare. Overall, Glenbrook Primary School continues to provide a good education, with areas identified for improvement, particularly in ensuring that reading materials align with phonics instruction and enhancing the delivery of the history and geography curriculum.
