Bird in Bush School, located in Peckham, has recently undergone an inspection that highlighted its overall effectiveness as good. The school was formed from the merger of two previous institutions, Camelot Primary School and Cobourg Primary School, and has successfully integrated the two communities. The leadership has fostered a welcoming atmosphere that promotes aspiration among pupils, who report feeling happy and safe. Regular attendance is noted, and pupils are encouraged to communicate their concerns to trusted adults.
The school recognizes the challenges faced by many families and provides support through free breakfast and after-school clubs, as well as holiday programs. Cultural enrichment is emphasized through trips to museums and other significant sites, enhancing pupils' understanding of diversity. Leaders maintain high expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, and are committed to improving educational quality, particularly in early years provision, which has been identified as an area needing improvement.
The curriculum is broad and balanced, aligning with national expectations. Reading is prioritized, with formal phonics instruction starting in Reception. Pupils engage in activities that develop their reading skills, and staff receive training to ensure effective delivery of the reading program. Regular assessments help identify pupils who may need additional support, contributing to improved phonics outcomes by the end of Year 1.
The school also promotes a love of reading through its racial literacy program, which exposes pupils to diverse texts. In mathematics, there is a focus on deepening understanding of fractions. Pupils are taught a variety of subjects, including science, computing, and music, where they learn practical skills such as programming and playing instruments.
However, some subjects lack a structured approach that allows pupils to build a comprehensive knowledge base over time. There are instances where the curriculum does not provide sufficient time for review and reinforcement of prior learning. Additionally, teaching practices sometimes fail to adequately assess pupils' understanding of content and vocabulary, leading to premature progression to new material. Early years pupils particularly struggle with communication and language development, as well as mathematical thinking.
The school has established effective systems to identify and support individual pupil needs, ensuring that those with SEND can access the curriculum. Regular attendance is encouraged, and leaders work closely with parents to address any barriers. Generally, pupils exhibit good behavior in lessons and throughout the school, although younger children in early years do not consistently follow routines or instructions.
Pupils have numerous opportunities to explore their interests and take on responsibilities within the school community. They learn about online safety and community awareness. Staff appreciate the training and support provided by leaders, which contributes to their well-being. The governing body is knowledgeable and dedicated to the school's mission.
Overall, Bird in Bush School has made significant progress since its formation, with a commitment to continuous improvement in educational provision. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. To enhance its effectiveness further, the school must focus on refining its curriculum to ensure it is ambitious and allows for adequate time to be taught thoroughly, while also improving early years provision to better prepare children for future learning.