Botwell House Catholic Primary School, located in Hayes, Middlesex, has been assessed as a good school following its inspection on October 4 and 5, 2023. The school provides a positive environment where pupils enjoy learning and interacting with one another. Leaders prioritize the needs of all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that they achieve well during their time at the school. The atmosphere is calm, and pupils demonstrate good behavior and respect towards each other and the staff. The school’s values are actively promoted by the staff, who also prioritize the safety and well-being of the pupils.
Pupils are educated on how to keep themselves safe, including discussions about online safety and the importance of communicating with trusted adults regarding any concerns. The school fosters a sense of community among pupils, staff, and families, creating a warm and supportive environment. Staff engage with the local community through various initiatives, such as singing at a care home and fundraising for a local hospice. The daily mile is a popular activity that promotes health and well-being among pupils and staff alike.
The school excels in curricular planning, with leaders developing strong curricular thinking across various subjects. Knowledge is sequenced effectively, allowing pupils to build on their learning over time. For instance, in art, younger pupils learn basic drawing techniques, while older pupils advance to more complex skills. However, there are areas where the implementation of the curriculum does not fully meet its intentions, leading to gaps in pupils' knowledge and skills in certain subjects.
Teachers regularly assess pupils' understanding and possess strong subject knowledge, presenting information clearly. Nonetheless, some subjects lack clarity regarding the specific knowledge that pupils should retain, which can hinder deeper understanding of key concepts. Reading is a significant focus at the school, with daily reading sessions and a well-structured phonics program in place. Staff are trained to support pupils in their reading journey, ensuring that they progress effectively and develop confidence as readers.
In the early years, the school establishes strong relationships with children and their families, allowing teachers to identify individual needs effectively. Pupils with special educational needs receive tailored support, enabling them to develop their skills through an adapted curriculum. Leaders collaborate with external specialists to enhance the support provided to these pupils.
Behavior management is consistent across the school, with pupils approaching their learning positively. Staff encourage discussions about feelings, promoting empathy and kindness among pupils. The school maintains high attendance expectations and has clear systems for addressing absences. Pupils learn about diversity and celebrate various cultural festivals, taking on responsibilities such as being eco-warriors and school councillors, which fosters a sense of pride and community involvement.
Staff express satisfaction with their work environment, appreciating the support for their workload and well-being. They find leaders approachable and receptive to their ideas. The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
To improve further, the school needs to ensure that the curriculum is delivered consistently across all subjects and that key content is clearly identified for retention. This will enhance pupils' understanding and prepare them for more complex learning in the future. Overall, Botwell House Catholic Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a strong emphasis on community, safety, and personal development.
