George Spicer Primary School, located in Enfield, Middlesex, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 22 and 23, 2023. The school, which operates across two sites, fosters a strong sense of community among its pupils, who are motivated and engaged in their learning from the early years through Year 6. Students express high regard for their teachers and staff, feeling safe and supported in their environment. They appreciate the kindness and friendliness of the staff, which encourages them to voice any concerns they may have. The school promotes positive behavior, with pupils looking after one another during break times and supporting their classmates in lessons.
The school has implemented a variety of initiatives to enhance pupil engagement, such as the ‘time to shine’ assemblies, where students compete for trophies in various activities, including singing and spelling. The school also rewards pupils with gold stars, allowing them to attend special afternoon tea parties with the headteacher. The leadership team and staff maintain high expectations for pupil achievement, collaborating effectively with parents and carers to ensure students receive the necessary support for success. By the end of Year 6, pupils are well-prepared for their transition to secondary school.
The curriculum at George Spicer Primary School is ambitious and designed to provide pupils with a broad and deep understanding of various subjects. Leaders have made efforts to ensure that the curriculum reflects the diverse backgrounds and cultures of the school community. In subjects like mathematics and reading, leaders have clearly defined what pupils need to learn and when, allowing for a structured progression of knowledge. For instance, Year 2 pupils apply their understanding of numbers to select appropriate units of measurement, while Year 4 pupils utilize their skills in tennis to execute successful rallies.
However, there are areas for improvement. In some subjects, such as history, leaders have not clearly identified the essential knowledge that pupils need to learn, leading to potential gaps in understanding. Teachers sometimes have to decide what content to cover, which can result in inconsistencies in learning outcomes. Additionally, while assessment practices are well-developed in early years and core subjects, there is a need for clearer strategies in other subjects to track pupil progress over time.
Reading is prioritized at the school, with a strong phonics program in place that helps pupils, especially those needing additional support, to become fluent readers. The early years are particularly engaging, with creative activities that inspire children’s imaginations and learning. The school environment is conducive to learning, with minimal disruptions during lessons and a welcoming atmosphere for new pupils.
Leaders also focus on the wider development of pupils, promoting values of respect and inclusion through initiatives like Pride week. Pupils participate in various clubs and leadership roles, fostering a sense of responsibility and community involvement. Staff feel valued and supported, with attention given to their workload and professional development.
The safeguarding measures at George Spicer Primary School are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to potential risks. Pupils are educated about safety, including online risks and healthy relationships. Overall, while the school demonstrates many strengths, addressing the identified areas for improvement will further enhance the educational experience for all pupils.