Olga Primary School, located in Bow, London, has been assessed as a good school following its inspection on November 17 and 18, 2021. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils are happy, confident, and engaged in their learning. The staff maintain high expectations, and the clear routines contribute to a well-structured educational experience. Relationships between staff and pupils are characterized by warmth and respect, which helps create a safe atmosphere where students feel comfortable discussing their feelings and any issues they may encounter.
Pupils take pride in their school and actively participate in community events, such as choir performances at notable venues and engaging in local projects. They also demonstrate an understanding of the importance of physical health through initiatives like managing an edible playground, where they grow produce for school lunches. The curriculum is designed to impart essential knowledge and vocabulary, enabling pupils to produce quality work across most subjects. However, there are areas where the curriculum could be further developed to ensure that pupils consistently practice key concepts and vocabulary, which may hinder their ability to grasp more complex ideas in the future.
Reading is a strong focus at Olga Primary School, with pupils expressing enjoyment in both reading and being read to. The school has implemented effective phonics instruction, allowing children in Nursery and Reception to quickly develop their vocabulary and reading skills. This foundation supports their ability to tackle more challenging texts as they progress. The curriculum aligns with national standards, and leaders have identified key knowledge for pupils to learn. In subjects like mathematics, pupils demonstrate their understanding of concepts such as equivalent fractions due to the structured approach to learning.
Despite these strengths, some subject plans lack clarity regarding the steps necessary for effective learning, which can lead to difficulties when pupils encounter more complex tasks. For instance, in physical education, pupils may struggle to combine basic skills into performances due to insufficient practice of foundational elements. The school aims to develop confident speakers, and while vocabulary instruction is generally effective, inconsistencies in its application across subjects can lead to misconceptions among some pupils.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive prompt identification and support, allowing them to engage fully with the curriculum and interact positively with their peers. Behavior in lessons is commendable, with pupils actively participating in their learning and feeling secure in discussing issues like bullying with staff. The school offers a range of after-school activities that enhance pupils' interests in various areas, including sports and the arts, while promoting an understanding of diversity through literature and the curriculum.
Staff at Olga Primary School report high levels of job satisfaction, feeling supported in their professional development and workload management. The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with staff trained to recognize and report concerns about pupil safety. The curriculum also educates pupils on safety issues, including risks associated with knife crime and appropriate communication. Overall, while Olga Primary School continues to be a good school, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that all subject plans clearly outline the necessary steps for effective learning and retention of key knowledge. This will help pupils build a solid foundation for tackling more complex concepts in their education.
