Donnington Primary School, located in London, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on April 25 and 26, 2023. The school provides a positive environment where pupils enjoy learning and feel safe. The relationships between pupils and staff are strong, contributing to a supportive atmosphere. Incidents of bullying are rare, and the school effectively helps new students integrate quickly. Parents and carers express high levels of satisfaction, appreciating the sense of community and the care provided to their children.
The leadership team is dedicated to ensuring that all pupils achieve their potential. They continuously review the curriculum and implement improvements with determination. There are effective systems in place to identify pupils who require additional support, including those with special educational needs and those learning English as an additional language. This targeted assistance has led to good academic outcomes, with early years children well-prepared for Year 1.
The school emphasizes the importance of reading, with staff trained to teach phonics effectively. Regular assessments help identify pupils who may need extra help, and reading materials are matched to their learning levels. Workshops for parents further support children's reading development. Curriculum leaders are focused on enhancing what pupils learn and when, recognizing that while achievement is good, there is room for improvement. They are making thoughtful changes to curriculum planning and ensuring staff receive the necessary training to teach effectively.
In the early years, children are encouraged to develop independence and resilience. They engage well during lessons, although there are occasional instances of low-level disruption, particularly when not taught by their regular teachers. The school teaches pupils about healthy relationships and consent, providing opportunities for them to practice democratic principles, such as voting on playground equipment.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including gardening and sports clubs, and places a strong emphasis on music. There are opportunities for pupils to participate in choirs and receive subsidized music lessons. Leaders prioritize staff welfare, striving to maintain a healthy work-life balance, and have revised behavior management policies to focus on positive reinforcement, resulting in a significant reduction in misbehavior incidents.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with a strong culture of vigilance among staff. Regular training ensures that all staff are aware of their responsibilities in safeguarding pupils. The school has effective systems for vetting new staff and provides timely support for pupils in need, whether through internal resources or external agencies.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Some subjects are still in the early stages of implementing revised curriculums, which may hinder pupils from achieving their full potential. Leaders are encouraged to ensure that these improvements are fully embedded across all subjects to maximize student achievement.
Overall, Donnington Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and a supportive environment for its pupils. The leadership team is proactive in addressing areas for growth while maintaining a strong focus on the well-being and development of both students and staff. The positive feedback from parents and the effective support systems in place highlight the school's dedication to fostering a thriving educational community.
