Vaughan Primary School, located in West Harrow, has recently undergone an ungraded inspection, maintaining its overall judgment of outstanding. The inspection, conducted on March 19 and 20, 2024, highlighted the school's commitment to providing a nurturing environment where pupils feel secure and valued. The ethos of preparing students for a happy future is evident from the moment one enters the school. Pupils exhibit exemplary behavior, reflecting the clear routines and strong, respectful relationships fostered within the school community. Trust between pupils and adults is a cornerstone of the school's environment, contributing to a sense of safety and well-being.
The school demonstrates ambition for all its pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum is broad and well-designed, particularly in English and mathematics, where pupils achieve high standards. However, some subjects are still in the early stages of development, and school leaders are aware of this, implementing plans to enhance these areas. Pupils are encouraged to take on responsibilities, such as serving on the school council or acting as playground monitors, which instills a sense of democracy and prepares them for life in modern Britain.
Reading is a significant focus at Vaughan Primary School, with initiatives in place to promote a love of literature. Older pupils from a local secondary school visit to read with younger students, fostering a community of readers. Phonics instruction begins in Reception, with staff receiving regular training to ensure consistency in delivery. Pupils who struggle with reading are quickly identified and supported, leading to high outcomes in literacy.
The curriculum aligns with national expectations, with a clear identification and sequencing of knowledge in most subjects. This structured approach allows pupils to build their understanding incrementally. For instance, in mathematics, Reception pupils practice counting and basic calculations, laying a solid foundation for future learning. In physical education, younger pupils develop skills that they apply in team sports. However, some subjects require further development in terms of clarity and sequencing of knowledge, which can affect the depth of understanding for some pupils.
Pupils with special educational needs are well-supported, benefiting from tailored programs that allow them to access the same curriculum as their peers. The school maintains a positive behavior culture, with calm and orderly classrooms that promote purposeful learning. Attendance is generally high, and robust systems are in place to support those with lower attendance rates.
Leaders prioritize pupils' personal development, ensuring that all decisions are made with the intent of overcoming barriers to learning. This commitment extends to fostering resilience and character strength among pupils. Staff express satisfaction with the support they receive to manage their workload, and professional development opportunities are available for those new to their roles.
The safeguarding arrangements at Vaughan Primary School are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. The inspection report indicates that while the school remains outstanding, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the development of certain subjects and the support for new subject leaders. The school is encouraged to implement its plans to enhance the curriculum and ensure that all staff are equipped to lead their subjects effectively. Overall, Vaughan Primary School continues to provide a high-quality education, preparing its pupils for future success.
