Hollickwood Primary School, located in Muswell Hill, London, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 4 and 5, 2023. The school is characterized by a friendly, welcoming, and inclusive environment where pupils express pride in their school community. Students feel safe and happy, attributing their positive experiences to the kindness and helpfulness of their teachers, who make learning enjoyable. The school promotes values such as commitment, courage, confidence, compassion, creativity, and curiosity, which are evident in the behavior and attitudes of the pupils.
Leaders at Hollickwood Primary School maintain high expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum is designed to prepare pupils effectively for the next stages of their education, and students generally learn well across most subjects. The behavior of pupils is commendable; they are polite, respectful, and caring towards one another, demonstrating a strong focus on their learning in the classroom. The school has established a culture where pupils feel secure enough to voice any concerns, and instances of bullying are rare and addressed promptly by staff.
The school offers a broad and balanced curriculum that aligns with national expectations. Leaders have clearly defined what pupils are expected to learn and remember in each subject, ensuring that knowledge is sequenced to help students practice and embed important concepts. For instance, in mathematics, younger pupils develop counting skills that build a foundation for more complex mathematical concepts later on. In art, pupils enhance their skills through various materials, allowing them to experiment creatively.
However, some subjects are still in the early stages of development, and staff have not received adequate training to implement the intended curriculum effectively. This has resulted in some pupils having a less secure understanding of key concepts in these areas. While teachers generally assess pupils' understanding, this practice is inconsistent in subjects that are not fully developed.
Hollickwood Primary School is committed to ensuring that all pupils learn to read proficiently. In the Reception class, children quickly learn letters and their corresponding sounds, with reading materials tailored to their phonetic knowledge. Support is provided to help struggling readers catch up, fostering a love for reading among older pupils who enjoy engaging with diverse literature.
Pupils with special educational needs are identified promptly and receive effective support, ensuring they can access the same curriculum as their peers. The school actively promotes diversity and understanding of different cultures and beliefs, with initiatives such as assemblies led by pupils with SEND to raise awareness about neurodiversity.
Staff members appreciate the measures taken by leaders to manage their workload and well-being. Governance is effective, with the governing body providing appropriate challenge and support to school leaders. The arrangements for safeguarding are robust, with staff trained to recognize and report concerns regarding pupil safety. The curriculum also educates pupils on staying safe, including online safety practices.
To improve further, the school needs to focus on enhancing teachers' subject knowledge in areas where the curriculum is still developing. This will ensure that all pupils receive clear explanations and consistent assessments of their learning. Overall, Hollickwood Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
