North Primary School, located on Meadow Road in Southall, has been inspected and continues to be recognized as a good school. The inspection took place on September 19 and 20, 2023. Pupils at North Primary School express enjoyment in their learning experiences and appreciate the supportive environment fostered by the school. They exhibit good behavior, feel safe, and are actively engaged in their education. A notable feature of the school is the ‘listening post,’ which allows pupils to voice any concerns and provides access to a school therapist, ensuring that their worries are taken seriously by the staff.
The leadership at North Primary School is ambitious, aiming for all pupils to succeed. The curriculum is broad and engaging, catering for the needs of all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. This thoughtful approach ensures that pupils develop a deep understanding of various subjects and are well-prepared for their future educational endeavors. The school also offers a variety of enrichment opportunities, including educational visits to places like Kew Gardens and the British Museum, as well as extracurricular activities such as fencing, gymnastics, athletics, and choir. Pupils are enthusiastic about these experiences and take pride in sharing their learning, such as their participation in the science club.
The curriculum is well-structured, with a clear identification of essential knowledge that pupils need to acquire. This knowledge is sequenced effectively from early years through to the later stages of education, allowing for a deepening of understanding over time. For instance, in physical education, pupils progress from basic throwing and catching skills to more complex techniques in older years. Similarly, in mathematics, foundational counting skills are built upon to support the understanding of multiplication tables and more complex problem-solving.
While the school excels in many areas, there are aspects that require improvement. The approach to assessment in certain subjects is still developing, leading to inconsistencies in checking pupils’ understanding. This can result in some pupils not fully grasping the necessary knowledge in these subjects. The school recognizes the need to enhance its assessment practices to ensure that all pupils have a secure understanding of their learning.
North Primary School promotes a love of reading among its pupils, with a carefully curated list of books for each year group. Regular reading opportunities are provided, and staff are trained to implement the phonics program effectively. This support helps pupils gain confidence and fluency in their reading skills.
Behavior within the school is calm and respectful, with pupils valuing the recognition they receive for embodying the school’s values. Leadership has established routines that promote good attendance and engagement. Pupils also enjoy leadership roles, contributing to school decisions and supporting younger peers during playtime.
The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place, creating a culture of safety for all pupils. Staff are trained to identify and report concerns, ensuring that pupils receive the necessary support. However, there are some administrative aspects of safeguarding that require more rigorous oversight, particularly regarding safer recruitment practices and the sharing of information with local authorities when pupils leave the school.
In summary, North Primary School is a good school that provides a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in assessment practices and safeguarding administration, the overall commitment to pupil success and well-being is evident throughout the school community.
