Forty Hill CofE Primary School, located in Enfield, was inspected on September 14-15, 2021, and received an overall effectiveness rating of Good. The school has a strong sense of community where staff and pupils support one another, fostering an environment where high expectations lead to positive outcomes. Pupils feel safe and well cared for, demonstrating good behavior and a clear understanding of the importance of kindness and respect. The school emphasizes the significance of hard work, with pupils enjoying rewards for their efforts, such as invitations to the headteacher's tea party for exemplary behavior. Bullying is infrequent, and when it occurs, it is addressed promptly by teachers.
Pupils appreciate the variety of clubs and activities available, particularly enjoying outdoor learning in the school's wooded area. They engage in clubs like the newspaper club, where they discuss current events while sharing lunch. The school maintains a close relationship with the nearby church, which plays a significant role in school life, especially during special celebrations.
The school prioritizes reading, with daily phonics sessions starting from the beginning of a child's education. This approach has led to pupils achieving well in reading, as they are provided with books that align with their phonics knowledge. However, some staff in Years 3 to 6 have not received comprehensive training in phonics, which can affect the support provided to pupils in these year groups.
Mathematics instruction builds on prior knowledge, enabling pupils to make connections between concepts and tackle more complex calculations as they progress. The school has developed new plans for other subjects in Years 1 to 6, focusing on essential knowledge in history, geography, science, and computing. While these plans were interrupted by partial school closures, they are being implemented and refined.
In the early years, staff collaborate with parents to promote children's all-round development, ensuring they achieve well across various learning areas. However, there is a need for better alignment between early years learning and the subject plans in Year 1 and beyond to ensure children are well-prepared for future learning.
The school effectively supports pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, adapting subject plans to meet diverse abilities. Pupils' wider development is a strength, with a focus on understanding diversity and equality through programs like reaching out, which encourages community involvement. Opportunities for reflection and prayer are integrated into school life, exemplified by a wall displaying pupils' hopes for the world post-pandemic.
Leaders and governors have a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement, working collaboratively to enhance the school environment. Staff express strong support for leadership, and parents are overwhelmingly positive about the school's offerings.
Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff prioritizing pupils' well-being and safety. They are trained to recognize and report concerns, ensuring pupils feel secure and informed about online safety. Leaders manage safeguarding matters diligently, ensuring timely support for pupils and families.
To improve, the school needs to enhance staff expertise in teaching early reading in Years 3 to 6 and ensure that subject plans for art, design and technology, and music clearly outline the knowledge pupils need to acquire. Additionally, leaders should refine early years planning to better connect with future learning in subsequent years. Overall, Forty Hill CofE Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and effective educational environment for its pupils.
