Howard Primary School, located in Croydon, Surrey, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 17 and 18, 2022. The school fosters a caring and respectful environment where pupils take pride in their community. They demonstrate good behavior both in lessons and throughout the school, looking out for one another and reporting any concerns to staff. Although instances of bullying do occur, they are infrequent, and the school effectively addresses such issues when they arise.
The staff at Howard Primary School maintain high expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Teachers are committed to ensuring that pupils do not give up and provide them with the necessary tools to succeed. The relationships between pupils and staff are positive, contributing to a happy and safe learning environment. Pupils enjoy learning about diverse cultures and beliefs, with older students participating in activities such as Hispanic Day, which included a popular Spanish theatre production.
The school places a strong emphasis on music and physical education, with pupils actively engaging in lessons, clubs, competitions, and performances. The upcoming performance at Fairfield Halls is highly anticipated by the students. The curriculum is well-designed, based on research and local context, ensuring that all pupils have access to a broad and ambitious education. Subject leaders possess excellent knowledge in their areas and regularly seek the best methods for delivering their subjects. Training and support are provided to staff throughout the year.
In the early years, the curriculum is ambitious and well-planned, with clear learning objectives. Children are encouraged to revisit and practice their knowledge regularly, both independently and with guidance from adults. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the outdoor learning environment, where activities sometimes lack clarity in their educational purpose.
The school has made necessary adjustments to the mathematics curriculum to address gaps caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Staff have received training to adapt lessons effectively, and expectations remain high, ensuring that children are well-prepared for their transition to Year 1. Older pupils demonstrate confidence in their mathematical reasoning and can articulate their understanding of concepts such as time.
Howard Primary School prioritizes reading, with staff trained to deliver a new phonics program. Most staff exhibit strong subject knowledge, and pupils are matched with books that align with their decoding levels. While the majority of phonics instruction is effective, some staff require additional training to ensure consistency in delivery. Nevertheless, pupils express a love for reading, attributing their enjoyment to engaging teaching methods.
Pupils are encouraged to reflect on their learning and understand the importance of democracy and respect for differences. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including art club, netball, and choir, enhancing the overall educational experience. Staff members are valued and supported, with manageable workloads that allow them to fulfill their responsibilities effectively.
The safeguarding arrangements at Howard Primary School are robust, with regular training for staff and governors. Clear systems are in place for reporting and addressing concerns, ensuring that pupils feel safe in all areas of the school. The school community is actively involved in safeguarding practices, and pupils are educated on online safety.
To improve further, the school should ensure that the early years outdoor curriculum aligns with its ambitious goals and that phonics instruction is consistently delivered to all pupils. Monitoring the implementation of the curriculum across all subjects will also be essential to provide a uniform educational experience for all students. Overall, Howard Primary School continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing a high-quality education for its pupils.
