Shaftesbury Park Primary School, located in Battersea, London, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on September 13 and 14, 2023. The school is characterized by a positive and respectful atmosphere where pupils demonstrate kindness and courtesy towards one another. This environment fosters a sense of safety and well-being among students, who often describe their school as joyful and welcoming. The pride pupils take in their school is evident in their care for the surroundings, including maintaining flowerpots and playground areas, which enhances the school's inviting nature for visitors.
Students at Shaftesbury Park are encouraged to take on various responsibilities, such as peer mentoring and participating in road safety initiatives. The school offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including history, gardening, chess, and choir, many of which are student-led. This approach allows pupils to explore their interests further and aligns with the school's vision of empowering them to think critically and creatively about their world. The curriculum is ambitious and designed to meet the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Staff maintain high expectations, resulting in quality work from students. The school features two streams: a bilingual stream and an enterprise stream, both of which introduce French lessons from the start of Reception.
The curriculum is structured to ensure that pupils develop a deep understanding of various subjects over time, preparing them well for future educational stages. Reading is prioritized, with early learners receiving targeted support to enhance their reading skills. Pupils engage with books that align with their learning progress, which boosts their accuracy, fluency, and confidence in reading. Many students enjoy reading independently and sharing their recommendations, and they are exposed to a wide range of inspiring literature across the curriculum.
While the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement. In some subjects, the activities provided do not effectively reinforce key concepts, which can hinder the depth of understanding for certain pupils, particularly those with special educational needs. The school is encouraged to ensure that tasks align with the curriculum's ambitions and build on prior knowledge to enhance learning outcomes.
Pupil behavior is commendable, with students getting along well and bullying being rare. They feel confident in reporting concerns, knowing that issues will be addressed promptly. The school has established effective systems for managing behavior and safeguarding, ensuring a supportive environment for all.
The personal development of pupils is also a strong focus, with the curriculum addressing important social issues such as citizenship and democracy. Students participate in initiatives like visiting the Houses of Parliament and engaging in community service projects, which foster a sense of responsibility and contribution to society.
Staff members express pride in their work at the school, feeling supported in managing their workloads and prioritizing well-being. The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and supported.
Overall, Shaftesbury Park Primary School continues to provide a good educational experience, with a strong emphasis on personal development, community engagement, and a commitment to high academic standards. The school is well-positioned to build on its strengths while addressing areas for improvement to further enhance the educational experience for all pupils.
