Brandlehow Primary School, located in Putney, London, was inspected on 10 and 11 October 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, with specific areas such as the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, leadership and management, and early years provision also receiving good ratings. Notably, personal development was rated as outstanding. The school had previously been rated as outstanding in its last inspection in December 2010 and was exempt from routine inspections until November 2020 due to this high rating.
Pupils at Brandlehow Primary School express enjoyment in attending school, highlighting the warm and respectful relationships fostered within the environment. The curriculum is broad and stimulating, encouraging enthusiasm among students for the subjects they study. The school prides itself on being highly inclusive, with staff maintaining high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. These pupils follow the same curriculum as their peers and receive additional support when necessary.
Behaviour within the school is commendable, with pupils demonstrating good conduct in lessons and throughout the school premises. Early years children are taught to adhere to daily routines, and staff respond promptly and calmly to any behavioural issues, ensuring that all pupils receive the support they need to succeed. The school promotes a safe and happy atmosphere where cooperation among pupils is evident.
The development of pupils' character is a central focus of the school's curriculum, with older students taking on various responsibilities such as school parliament representatives and house captains. The school offers a rich array of extracurricular activities, including clubs and educational visits, which contribute to a well-rounded educational experience.
The curriculum is ambitious and covers all areas of the national curriculum, with a logical progression of knowledge mapped out from early years onwards. Teachers demonstrate good subject knowledge and present information clearly, facilitating manageable learning steps for pupils. However, there are instances where teaching may not align perfectly with the planned curriculum, leading to inconsistencies in knowledge acquisition across some subjects and early years aspects.
Reading is prioritized at Brandlehow, with staff trained in phonics instruction. Pupils, including those with SEND, have regular opportunities to practice reading with appropriately matched books, aiding their fluency and comprehension. The school fosters a love of reading, encouraging vocabulary development and engagement with high-quality literature.
The school effectively identifies and supports the needs of pupils with SEND, ensuring that they have access to the same curriculum as their peers. Staff receive training to adapt the curriculum to meet diverse needs, promoting inclusivity.
Pupils exhibit respect and courtesy towards one another and appreciate the school's emphasis on physical and mental health education. The behaviour policy is consistently applied, contributing to a positive learning environment. The school community values diversity and promotes understanding of different cultures and faiths.
Attendance is monitored closely, with effective systems in place to address any concerns. Leaders have a clear understanding of the school's effectiveness and have set relevant improvement priorities. Staff appreciate the support provided for their professional development, and parents express high levels of satisfaction with the school.
Governance is strong, with well-informed individuals who share the school's ambitions for student success. They maintain effective oversight and hold leaders accountable for their performance. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, Brandlehow Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education while fostering a supportive and inclusive community.