Isleworth Town Primary School, located in Isleworth, Middlesex, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 8 and 9, 2023. The school is characterized by its welcoming and inclusive environment, where pupils express a strong sense of belonging. Students report that everyone is treated with kindness and respect, fostering a positive atmosphere. Older pupils take on leadership roles, particularly in sports, where they assist younger students during physical education sessions. This mentorship is valued by the older students, who see themselves as role models.
The relationships between school leaders, staff, and pupils are nurturing and professional, creating a safe space for students to voice their concerns. The school effectively addresses any incidents of bullying, ensuring that pupils feel secure. Leaders have high aspirations for their students, encouraging them to be confident and ambitious. Pupils are given opportunities to contribute to the school community, such as organizing lunchtime clubs, which enhances their decision-making skills and sense of responsibility.
Reading is a priority at Isleworth Town Primary School, with all teaching staff trained in phonics instruction. The phonics program is implemented consistently from early years onward, allowing pupils to develop reading skills effectively. Regular assessments ensure that pupils receive the necessary support to keep pace with their learning. The curriculum is ambitious and aligns with national standards, focusing on essential knowledge that pupils need to acquire and retain. However, there are instances where the emphasis on tasks may overshadow the importance of subject content, leading to challenges in recalling key knowledge.
The school’s curriculum is well-structured, with leaders carefully considering how knowledge builds over time. Teachers ensure that pupils can apply prior learning to new concepts, as seen in mathematics lessons where students utilize their understanding of addition and multiplication to solve algebraic problems. While most subjects are sequenced effectively, some areas require further refinement to enhance clarity in knowledge progression from early years through to later stages.
Assessment practices are robust, allowing teachers to identify what pupils know and determine the support needed for their continued learning. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive appropriate assistance, including access to specialized resources. Collaboration among leaders, teachers, and external professionals ensures that the curriculum is adapted to meet diverse learning needs, resulting in positive outcomes for all pupils.
The school’s values play a significant role in its community, with pupils appreciating recognition for demonstrating kindness and respect. High expectations from leaders and teachers contribute to a focused learning environment, minimizing disruptions. Pupils are educated about maintaining a healthy body and mind, with initiatives such as assemblies addressing the impact of technology on mental health.
The governing body is effective in its role, providing support and challenge to school leaders while ensuring staff workload is manageable. Staff generally feel valued and supported in their roles. Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff trained to recognize signs of distress in pupils and respond appropriately. The school promotes awareness of potential risks and ensures that safety is integrated into the personal, social, and health education curriculum.
Overall, Isleworth Town Primary School continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing a high-quality education in a supportive environment. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that subject knowledge is prioritized, the school’s strengths in fostering a positive community and supporting pupil development are evident. The school is well-positioned to build on its successes and address the identified areas for growth.
