Belmont Primary School, located in Chiswick, London, was inspected on February 2 and 3, 2022. The school received an overall effectiveness rating of Good, which reflects its commitment to providing quality education and a supportive environment for its pupils. The inspection noted that the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as Good.
The school has a positive atmosphere where pupils feel happy and safe. Parents expressed satisfaction with the school, highlighting that their children look forward to attending and often return home with smiles. The nurturing environment fosters politeness, kindness, and respect among pupils and towards adults. Teachers are dedicated to knowing their pupils individually, which allows them to provide tailored support that enhances both learning and well-being.
Behavior at Belmont Primary is commendable, with pupils conducting themselves well throughout the school. They enjoy their break times and feel comfortable approaching adults for help, knowing that any incidents of bullying are addressed promptly. The school offers a variety of enrichment activities, including gardening and a range of before- and after-school clubs, which contribute to a well-rounded educational experience.
The leadership team and governors are focused on ensuring that pupils achieve their best. The curriculum is broad and rich, supporting both academic and personal development. Pupils effectively build their knowledge and skills across subjects, and the high expectations set by teachers prepare them well for future educational steps. This includes support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, with teaching assistants playing a vital role in their learning.
Teaching at the school is strong, with educators making learning enjoyable and engaging. Early years provision is particularly effective, providing children with meaningful learning experiences and helping them adapt to school routines. Reading is prioritized, with a robust phonics program that supports pupils in developing strong reading skills. Daily reading sessions at school and home foster a genuine love for reading, with pupils expressing enthusiasm for their favorite books and discussing characters and themes eloquently.
Pupils demonstrate positive attitudes towards learning, quickly settling into tasks due to their interest in the subjects. Classrooms are vibrant and welcoming, with clear routines that promote independent and cooperative work. However, the use of assessment to inform lesson planning varies. While teachers effectively identify gaps in knowledge through questioning, there are instances where opportunities to assess prior knowledge are missed. Additionally, some curriculum plans begin in Year 1 rather than the foundation stage, which could be improved.
Personal development is a strong focus at Belmont Primary. Pupils learn about different faiths and cultures, becoming caring and responsible citizens through various opportunities such as trips and clubs. They understand democratic processes by electing representatives to the school council and contribute positively to the school community through leadership roles.
Professional development for staff is prioritized, ensuring they receive the support needed to teach the curriculum effectively. Staff appreciate the consideration given to their well-being. Governors actively hold leaders accountable for the school's performance and ensure compliance with statutory requirements. However, communication between leaders could be improved, particularly regarding pupils' knowledge and overall educational performance.
While many parents are supportive, some expressed a desire for clearer communication from school leaders to better assist their children's learning. The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with staff trained to identify and respond to risks. The curriculum includes opportunities for pupils to learn about safety, including online safety and healthy relationships.
To enhance the school's effectiveness, leaders should ensure that lesson planning reflects pupils' existing knowledge and skills, particularly in key stage 1. Additionally, improving communication with parents and refining administrative processes, including staff training records, would further strengthen the school's operations. Overall, Belmont Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
