Ashmead Primary School, located in Deptford, London, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 23 and 24, 2022. The school has a positive atmosphere where pupils express enjoyment in attending and show enthusiasm for learning. Many students take pride in their achievements and feel a sense of belonging, with new students reporting that they find it easy to make friends. The school promotes a calm environment, with pupils demonstrating good behavior both in classrooms and throughout the school. This is attributed to the clear expectations set by school leaders and the consistent approach of staff regarding behavior management. Pupils are encouraged to report any concerns, and instances of bullying are addressed promptly, ensuring effective safeguarding measures are in place.
The leadership at Ashmead Primary School is ambitious for both the personal and academic development of its pupils. Parents and carers appreciate this commitment, noting that it contributes to their children's enjoyment of school. The school offers a variety of extracurricular opportunities, including educational visits and workshops with authors and musicians. Pupils have shared their excitement about participating in activities such as learning to play the ukulele and engaging in sports clubs.
The curriculum at Ashmead Primary School is ambitious and thoughtfully sequenced, allowing pupils to build on their prior knowledge as they progress through their education. For instance, in geography, pupils explore migration in Year 4 and later connect this knowledge to global issues in Years 5 and 6. Teachers receive guidance and training to ensure they are well-equipped to deliver the curriculum effectively. The high expectations set by teachers contribute to a focused learning environment, minimizing disruptions and allowing for effective teaching.
However, the inspection identified areas for improvement. In some subjects, the school has not clearly defined the most important knowledge that pupils should acquire, leading to an overly broad curriculum that may hinder cumulative learning. Leaders are actively working to refine the curriculum to ensure that it emphasizes essential knowledge across all subjects.
Teachers generally adapt their instruction to meet the diverse needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Support staff play a crucial role in providing effective assistance, as they are well-informed about the specific needs of the pupils they work with. The school prioritizes reading, implementing a systematic approach to phonics instruction from early years onward. Pupils have ample opportunities to practice reading daily, and they enjoy a wide range of literature, which enhances their reading skills.
Mathematics instruction is consistent across classes, enabling pupils to develop a solid understanding of mathematical concepts over time. Teachers emphasize fluency in number operations and problem-solving, encouraging pupils to articulate their reasoning. In early years, educators focus on establishing a strong foundation in number knowledge.
Pupils at Ashmead Primary School are encouraged to take on responsibilities, such as supporting younger peers and contributing to the development of the school's behavior policy. They receive education on healthy relationships and online safety, equipping them with the knowledge to navigate potential challenges.
The school leadership is attentive to staff well-being, ensuring that workloads are manageable. Staff members feel comfortable raising concerns with leaders, fostering a supportive work environment. Governors are actively involved in understanding the school's strengths and areas for development, providing both challenge and support to school leaders.
The safeguarding arrangements at Ashmead Primary School are effective, with leaders prioritizing the safety of pupils. Staff are trained to recognize signs that a pupil may need help and are diligent in reporting concerns. The school collaborates with families and external agencies to provide necessary support, ensuring that pupils receive appropriate assistance when needed.
In summary, Ashmead Primary School is a good school that fosters a positive learning environment, promotes high expectations, and prioritizes the well-being of both pupils and staff. While there are areas for improvement in curriculum clarity, the school is committed to enhancing its educational offerings and ensuring that all pupils receive a high-quality education.
