St Michael’s CofE Voluntary Aided Primary School in Highgate, London, has received an outstanding rating in its recent inspection conducted on June 21 and 22, 2023. The school has demonstrated exceptional quality in various aspects, including education, behavior, personal development, leadership, and early years provision. The school fosters an environment where pupils, including those in early years, thrive and flourish. Staff maintain high expectations for all students, promoting respect and a welcoming culture that makes the school a happy and safe place for learning.
The curriculum is designed to provide pupils with a deep understanding of each subject, enabling them to achieve high standards across the board. The school offers a broad curriculum complemented by a variety of clubs and cultural visits, enriching the educational experience. Pupils exhibit exemplary behavior, showing maturity and politeness towards peers and staff. The positive relationships within the school contribute to a calm learning environment where pupils remain focused and engaged.
Leaders at St Michael’s have established a high-quality education system that caters to all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Staff are well-trained to meet the diverse needs of these pupils, ensuring they flourish academically. The curriculum is ambitious, often exceeding national expectations, with subject leaders clearly identifying the essential knowledge and skills required for all pupils. This structured approach allows pupils to achieve consistently well across various subjects, including music, where they confidently discuss classical composers.
Teachers possess strong subject knowledge and effectively use assessment information to tailor their teaching. They employ skilled questioning to identify and address gaps in understanding, allowing pupils to build on their prior knowledge. The emphasis on reading is particularly noteworthy, with early years children quickly becoming fluent readers and writers. Staff are adept at teaching reading, providing high-quality support that leads to exceptional writing standards. The literature provided to pupils inspires a love for reading and encourages detailed discussions about their favorite authors and books.
Pupils take pride in their work, producing high-quality outputs in various subjects, including art and music. They embrace their responsibilities, particularly as sports ambassadors, and enjoy well-organized playtimes in the school's well-maintained grounds. The school promotes a comprehensive understanding of relationships, health, and well-being, teaching pupils about different faiths and cultures, which fosters respect and positive contributions to the community.
Governance at St Michael’s is strong, with committed and knowledgeable individuals who effectively challenge and support school leaders. Professional development for staff is prioritized, ensuring they become experts in their fields while considering their workload and well-being. Staff express pride in working at the school, contributing to a thriving educational environment.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of safety established by leaders. Staff are trained to recognize signs that a pupil may need help, and concerns are addressed promptly. Pupils are educated on safety, including online safety, and are aware of trusted adults to approach with any worries.
Overall, St Michael’s CofE Voluntary Aided Primary School exemplifies excellence in education, providing a nurturing and challenging environment that supports the academic and personal development of all its pupils. The school’s commitment to high standards and the well-being of its community is evident in every aspect of its operation.
