Holy Trinity CofE Primary School in East Finchley, London, was inspected on June 19 and 20, 2024, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has a strong reputation for fostering a happy and inclusive community, where both pupils and staff describe the environment as familial. Pupils exhibit exemplary behavior and demonstrate respect for one another, actively engaging in learning about diverse cultures. The school promotes a culture of safety and well-being, with pupil ambassadors monitoring behavior and contributing to a positive atmosphere.
The school has high expectations for all students, ensuring that children leave the early years well-prepared for Year 1. The previous Year 6 cohort achieved significantly above the national average in reading, writing, and mathematics. The school effectively supports a large number of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, tailoring a bespoke curriculum to meet their needs while maintaining high aspirations for all students.
Pupil involvement is encouraged through various ambassador groups and the school council, allowing them to voice their opinions on school matters. The leadership team has made significant strides in reviewing and enhancing the curriculum, although some areas are still in development. The processes for identifying and supporting pupils with special educational needs are well-established, involving collaboration with parents and external agencies.
Reading is prioritized within the school, with staff trained in a phonics program that effectively develops pupils' reading skills from early years. The school fosters a love of reading through author visits and engaging workshops, resulting in pupils becoming confident and fluent readers. The curriculum is well-structured in many subjects, leading to strong pupil achievement, thanks to ongoing professional development for teachers.
However, there are areas for improvement. The outdoor provision in early years does not yet match the high-quality teaching found indoors, and the school has identified this as a priority for enhancement. Additionally, some subjects in the wider curriculum are still in the early stages of development, which affects pupil achievement in those areas. The school must ensure that all subject leaders gain the necessary expertise to teach effectively across the curriculum.
Pupils in early years are inquisitive and engage purposefully in activities, demonstrating strong working relationships with staff. They take initiatives to ensure inclusivity, such as older pupils supporting younger ones with special educational needs. The school actively addresses attendance issues and provides robust pastoral support, promoting mental health and well-being through various extracurricular activities.
Staff morale is high, with unanimous agreement on enjoying their work environment and feeling supported by school leaders. The governing body plays a crucial role in overseeing the school's operations, providing both support and challenge to ensure continuous improvement.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, contributing to a safe learning environment. The school is committed to addressing the identified areas for improvement, particularly in curriculum development and outdoor provision, to ensure that all pupils achieve their full potential. Overall, Holy Trinity CofE Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing quality education and support for its diverse student body.
