Dairy Meadow Primary School, located in Southall, Middlesex, has been inspected and continues to be recognized as a good school. The inspection took place on 11 and 12 October 2023. The school is committed to the well-being of its pupils, with staff who are attentive to their needs and concerns. Pupils feel comfortable approaching any adult in the school and have access to message boxes in classrooms for sharing worries. The school has also created a dedicated space for pupils to seek counseling when needed. The environment is welcoming, and pupils enjoy participating in various activities, particularly in the spacious playground.
Behavior among pupils is commendable, with a culture of politeness, confidence, and respect evident both in and out of lessons. The school maintains high expectations for its pupils, leading to strong academic achievements, especially in mathematics, early reading, and writing. Efforts are ongoing to ensure that achievement is consistent across all areas of the curriculum. The school actively engages with the local community, encouraging pupils to participate in initiatives such as donating to food hubs and engaging in gardening projects.
Dairy Meadow Primary School also provides pupils with insights into the world of work. Initiatives like inviting women from the construction industry to speak to students and hosting discussions with professionals from various fields help broaden pupils' understanding of career opportunities. The curriculum is well-structured, allowing pupils to build knowledge progressively. Early years education is particularly effective, preparing children for future learning experiences.
While the curriculum is generally delivered as planned, there are instances where teaching does not fully secure pupils' understanding of essential knowledge, which can hinder their grasp of new concepts. Additionally, some pupils struggle with subject-specific vocabulary, impacting their ability to recall and apply what they have learned. The school recognizes the importance of addressing these gaps to enhance overall learning outcomes.
The school is proactive in identifying and supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Early identification ensures that these pupils receive the necessary support and adaptations in the curriculum, allowing them to thrive academically. The emphasis on early reading is evident, with a strong phonics program in place that begins in Reception. Regular assessments help identify pupils who may need additional support, ensuring they can catch up quickly.
Pupils are engaged and focused during lessons, collaborating effectively with peers and completing tasks with minimal prompting. The school monitors attendance closely, providing support for those who may struggle with regular attendance. Enrichment activities complement the formal curriculum, with opportunities for pupils to learn musical instruments and participate in sports tournaments. The school has established a stable staff team, with many members having long tenures, contributing to a supportive work environment.
The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and their well-being is prioritized. The school is committed to continuous improvement, recognizing areas where further development is needed, particularly in ensuring that all pupils have a secure understanding of foundational knowledge before introducing new concepts. Overall, Dairy Meadow Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a positive learning environment for all its pupils.
