Granard Primary School, located in Putney, London, has been evaluated as a good school following its inspection on May 23 and 24, 2023. The school community is characterized by kindness and care, with a strong commitment to the motto of growing together and achieving together. Leaders and governors demonstrate ambition for all pupils, actively engaging parents and carers in the school’s activities. The curriculum is well-structured and inclusive, ensuring that all pupils, including those in the early years, are set up for future success.
Pupils feel safe and valued within the school environment, forming meaningful friendships. The school fosters a climate of trust and support, making it easy for new pupils to integrate. Teachers are attentive to the individual needs of students, and incidents of bullying are rare, with staff responding swiftly when they occur. Weekly swimming lessons contribute to pupils' physical development, while educational trips, such as visits to Kew Gardens, enhance their understanding of the science curriculum. Collaborative initiatives, like the paired reading program, promote a love of reading, supported by a well-utilized local library.
The school excels in providing a broad curriculum that aligns with national standards, resulting in strong academic performance across various subjects. All pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, have access to the same curriculum, with tailored adaptations made to meet their needs. Teachers effectively support these pupils, ensuring they receive a balanced and personalized educational experience.
While most subjects are sequenced to build knowledge over time, there are a few areas where curriculum development is less robust. In these subjects, pupils may not deepen their understanding as effectively. Early reading instruction is a notable strength, with a focus on phonics that begins in nursery. Teachers are well-trained in delivering the phonics program, and pupils read books that align with their learning progress. The school promotes a love of reading through high-quality literature and author visits, making reading an enjoyable habit.
Teachers are knowledgeable and present content clearly, breaking down complex information into manageable parts. However, there are instances where checks on pupil understanding are too general, leading to gaps in knowledge. Teachers create opportunities for discussion, encouraging the use of subject-specific language and reinforcing learning. The school environment is respectful, with pupils demonstrating good behavior and supporting one another.
Granard Primary School offers a variety of extracurricular activities that enhance the educational experience, including vocal projects, chess, and sports clubs. Partnerships with local organizations provide additional opportunities for personal development, such as public speaking projects with secondary school students. The school encourages pupils to engage with their community through charity events, fostering a sense of character and social responsibility.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with a strong culture of safety established by leaders. The safeguarding team is well-trained and responsive to concerns, ensuring that vulnerable pupils receive the necessary support. The personal, social, and health education curriculum is well-planned, equipping pupils with essential safety knowledge for their transition to secondary school.
To improve, the school should focus on enhancing curriculum development in the few subjects where it is less established, ensuring that all areas allow pupils to build and deepen their knowledge. Additionally, leaders must ensure that teachers systematically check pupil understanding to address any gaps in knowledge effectively. Overall, Granard Primary School provides a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, with a strong commitment to their academic and personal development.
