Hazelwood Junior School, located in London, has been inspected recently and continues to maintain its overall judgement of good. The inspection, conducted on 26 and 27 September 2023, revealed that the school might achieve an outstanding rating if a graded inspection were to take place now. The school is known for its positive environment where pupils thrive, enjoy attending, and work hard, resulting in commendable achievements. The character values promoted by the school, such as kindness, responsibility, and ambition, are evident across all year groups. Pupils exhibit excellent behavior, respect one another, and take pride in their work, contributing to a safe and supportive atmosphere where they feel comfortable discussing any concerns with staff.
The curriculum at Hazelwood Junior School is rich and ambitious, effectively preparing pupils for their future educational journeys. The seamless transition from the infant school allows pupils to build on their prior learning and acquire new knowledge at a suitable pace. The school ensures that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, have access to this curriculum, with strong provisions in place to support them. Teachers possess a deep understanding of their pupils, enabling them to quickly identify those who require additional help and provide appropriate support.
Leaders at the school prioritize parental involvement, maintaining regular communication and addressing concerns raised by parents and carers. This engagement fosters a strong partnership between the school and families, enhancing the overall educational experience for pupils. The curriculum is well-structured, allowing pupils to make meaningful connections between subjects. For instance, when studying ancient Egypt in history, pupils draw upon their geographical knowledge of the River Nile. This integrated approach helps pupils develop a solid foundation in various subjects, preparing them for the challenges of secondary education.
Teachers at Hazelwood Junior School demonstrate strong subject knowledge and employ effective strategies to ensure that pupils learn and retain information over time. They regularly assess understanding and adapt their teaching to meet the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs. The emphasis on reading is particularly noteworthy, with staff quickly identifying pupils who need extra support and providing targeted assistance to help them gain confidence in their reading abilities.
Beyond academics, the school is dedicated to fostering the personal development of its pupils. The character values promoted within the school are reflected in the behavior of pupils, who take on responsibilities such as mentoring younger students during playtime. High attendance rates indicate positive attitudes towards learning, and pupils are taught essential life skills, including online safety and healthy relationships. A variety of extracurricular activities, such as skateboarding, crafting, and dance, allow pupils to explore new interests and talents.
Governance at Hazelwood Junior School is strong, with governors well-informed about the school's operations and able to provide effective oversight. The shared vision among governors and school leaders ensures that staff are well-supported in their roles, with access to high-quality training and resources. Staff members express pride in their work and feel that their well-being is taken into account.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The recent inspection marks the second ungraded inspection since the school was last judged to be good in July 2014. Overall, Hazelwood Junior School exemplifies a commitment to educational excellence, personal development, and community engagement, making it a commendable choice for families in the area.
