Berrymede Infant School, located in Acton, London, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on September 15 and 16, 2021. The school demonstrates a strong commitment to fostering high expectations for all pupils, particularly in the areas of language and communication. Teachers actively encourage students, including those who speak English as an additional language, to articulate their thoughts using full sentences. This approach is designed to help pupils become confident communicators, enhancing their ability to concentrate and retain important vocabulary.
The leadership team at Berrymede Infant School emphasizes the importance of cultural pride and responsibility among pupils. Students learn about historical figures relevant to their backgrounds, which fosters a sense of identity and belonging. The school promotes British values and encourages pupils to engage in responsible citizenship through various experiences, such as participating in the care of the school’s vegetable garden. This hands-on approach helps students develop a sense of responsibility and community involvement.
Pupils transition smoothly into the school environment, quickly forming friendships and enjoying a calm and orderly atmosphere. They feel safe and supported, with staff members being described as caring and fair. Feedback from parents and carers indicates a general agreement that behavior is good and that any instances of bullying are managed effectively by school leaders.
Reading is a key priority at Berrymede Infant School, with daily reading sessions that ignite enthusiasm for books among pupils, particularly in the early years. The phonics program is well-structured, allowing teachers to assess pupils' knowledge of sounds and provide targeted support for those who may be struggling. This consistent approach across the school ensures that pupils develop into confident and fluent readers.
Mathematics instruction is also well-organized, with a clear sequence that helps pupils retain and build upon their knowledge. Teachers use consistent language and prompts to reinforce important mathematical concepts, and they incorporate physical gestures to aid understanding. Regular checks on pupils' learning throughout the year allow teachers to adjust their instruction based on individual needs. In the early years, children are prepared effectively for Year 1, with opportunities to develop their mathematical understanding both indoors and outdoors.
The curriculum aligns with the national standards, and leaders are generally thoughtful about how content is sequenced to facilitate successful learning. For instance, in geography, pupils begin learning about maps early on, which builds a solid foundation for their understanding by Year 2. However, there are a few subjects where the planning of key content could be improved to ensure that pupils acquire all necessary knowledge for future learning.
The school has faced challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which has impacted the completion of ongoing training and collaboration with other schools. Nevertheless, Berrymede Infant School provides a range of extracurricular opportunities, including partnerships with external agencies to enhance the curriculum. Initiatives such as nutrition workshops and after-school fitness clubs promote healthy lifestyles and physical activity among pupils.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive appropriate support, ensuring they can access the same curriculum as their peers. Adaptations, such as visual resources, help all pupils understand the material being taught. The school collaborates closely with external therapists to provide additional support and training for staff.
Governors and school leaders work together to manage staff workload and well-being, actively seeking feedback to reduce unnecessary burdens. This collaborative approach has been appreciated by staff, contributing to a positive working environment.
The safeguarding arrangements at Berrymede Infant School are effective, with staff trained to identify pupils who may need support. Leaders engage with external services to ensure that pupils receive appropriate help. The commitment to safeguarding is evident, with thorough vetting processes for adults working with pupils and initiatives to educate students about safety.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that the curriculum content is carefully planned and sequenced across all subjects. Leaders are already taking steps to address these issues, indicating a proactive approach to enhancing the educational experience for all pupils. Overall, Berrymede Infant School continues to provide a supportive and enriching environment for its students.
