Glebe Primary School, located in Ickenham, Uxbridge, received a positive inspection report following its evaluation on May 16 and 17, 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, reflecting the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision, all of which were also rated as good. The school has maintained this level of performance since its previous inspection in May 2018.
The school is characterized by a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, where positive relationships flourish among adults, pupils, and their families. Leaders have fostered a nurturing environment that ensures pupils feel cared for, valued, and safe. High expectations and aspirations for all pupils are evident, and the school provides experiences that broaden pupils' perspectives, including visits to museums and universities. Parents and carers appreciate the warm atmosphere and the dedication of the staff.
Pupils exhibit good behavior during lessons, transitions, and playtimes, demonstrating politeness and good manners. Older pupils actively support younger ones, particularly in reading, which reinforces the caring ethos of the school. Pupils express confidence in the staff's ability to address any concerns they may have. Opportunities for pupils to engage in school life are abundant, with roles such as eco team members and prefects, fostering a sense of responsibility and pride in their contributions to the community.
The school has developed an ambitious curriculum, with leaders collaborating effectively with the governing body to enhance key areas. The curriculum is designed to build knowledge sequentially, and in the early years, leaders ensure that children learn successfully across all areas. However, in some subjects, there is a need for improvement in identifying and checking the key content that pupils need to learn and remember over time, which can limit their subject-specific knowledge and understanding.
Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and present information clearly, enabling pupils to learn new vocabulary and engage enthusiastically with their learning. While most teachers effectively check pupils' understanding, there are instances where misconceptions are not addressed promptly, hindering deeper learning. In early years, staff successfully prepare children for Year 1 by helping them understand the world around them.
Reading is a priority for leaders, who have implemented a systematic approach to teaching phonics. Staff are well-versed in the new curriculum, helping pupils decode words accurately and build reading fluency. Targeted support is provided for pupils at risk of falling behind, ensuring they read with confidence.
The school effectively supports pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance to learn alongside their peers. Staff are knowledgeable about the needs of these pupils and collaborate with external agencies when required.
High expectations for behavior and attitudes are upheld, with most pupils responding positively during lessons. Staff help children in the Nursery and Reception Year learn routines quickly, promoting sharing and cooperative play. Leaders prioritize personal development, teaching pupils about healthy relationships and encouraging respect for differences. Opportunities for discussion and debate on important topics contribute to pupils' understanding of mental health and well-being.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with all staff receiving up-to-date training. Leaders respond promptly to concerns raised by staff and ensure that pupils and families receive the necessary support. Pupils are educated on safety, including online safety, and know whom to approach with any worries.
To improve further, the school needs to ensure that assessments in all subjects align closely with the key content pupils need to learn over time. Additionally, addressing misconceptions more effectively will enhance pupils' understanding and knowledge retention. Overall, Glebe Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive environment for all its pupils.
