Alderbrook Primary School

Alderbrook Primary School, located in Balham, London, has recently undergone an inspection that highlighted its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on January 31 and February 1, 2024, and the school has maintained its previous grade of good since the last inspection in July 2018. The school serves a diverse community and aims to foster curiosity, tenacity, and collaboration among its pupils. The curriculum is designed to help students develop resilience in their learning, encouraging them to persist even when faced with challenges.

Pupils at Alderbrook Primary School thrive in a supportive environment where they feel safe and valued. They exhibit good behavior both in lessons and throughout the school, with reports indicating that bullying is rare and swiftly addressed. Students express confidence in discussing any concerns with adults, contributing to a positive school culture. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including swimming lessons for younger students and music education that includes learning instruments like the recorder and ukulele. Notably, pupils are introduced to concepts of future careers and academic pursuits early on, with experiences such as visits to prestigious institutions like Cambridge University.

The school places a strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion, with pupils reporting a sense of belonging within the community. The curriculum is ambitious and broad, allowing students to build knowledge progressively. For instance, in the early years, children engage in activities that enhance their understanding of numbers through interactive play. As they advance, they develop fluency in mathematical concepts, which prepares them for more complex ideas in later years. The approach to teaching reading is also effective, with a structured phonics program that supports nearly all pupils in making swift progress.

Despite the strengths, there are areas for improvement. Occasionally, some pupils are assigned tasks that are too challenging, which can hinder their progress. This issue is particularly noted in a few subjects where the curriculum implementation may not be as effective. It is essential for teachers to ensure that pupils have a solid understanding before moving on to new concepts to prevent gaps in knowledge. The school is encouraged to refine its teaching strategies to enhance overall curriculum delivery.

In the early years, children benefit from nurturing interactions with adults, which helps them learn essential social skills such as sharing and taking turns. This positive atmosphere extends throughout the school, where high standards of behavior are upheld. Pupils are taught to reflect on their actions and make amends when necessary, resulting in a focused and orderly environment. The school prioritizes good attendance and works closely with families to support this goal, leading to high attendance rates.

Alderbrook Primary School effectively identifies pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), ensuring they receive the necessary support to participate in learning. However, there are instances where adaptations to teaching may not fully meet the needs of some SEND pupils, particularly when they are expected to engage in activities before their understanding is secure. Addressing these gaps is crucial for ensuring all pupils can progress effectively.

The school’s approach to personal development includes teaching pupils about healthy relationships and effective learning strategies. Pupils participate in various educational visits and residential trips, which enrich their learning experiences. Leadership at the school is strong, with governors and leaders collaborating effectively to promote good behavior and a positive school culture. Parents and carers express high levels of satisfaction with the school’s nurturing environment, highlighting the welcoming atmosphere that encourages children to eagerly attend school.

The safeguarding arrangements at Alderbrook Primary School are effective, ensuring that pupils’ welfare is prioritized. The school is committed to continuous improvement and is encouraged to address the identified areas for development to enhance the educational experience for all students. Overall, Alderbrook Primary School provides a solid foundation for its pupils, fostering a love for learning and a sense of community.