The Cedars Primary School, located in Cranford, Hounslow, has recently undergone an inspection on June 12 and 13, 2024, and has been rated as good in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. This school has a history of excellence, having been previously rated as outstanding ten years ago. The school caters to pupils aged five to eleven, with a total enrollment of seventy-two students, all of whom have an Education, Health and Care plan that identifies social, emotional, and mental health as their primary needs.
The school fosters a nurturing environment where pupils are encouraged to become curious learners. The community is described as friendly, with pupils feeling safe and happy. The curriculum is designed to be broad and balanced, taking into account the specific needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Staff provide personalized learning programs, ensuring that each pupil receives the support they need to thrive academically and socially. The commitment to individualized education is evident, as pupils engage positively in their learning experiences.
Pupils generally exhibit positive behaviour during lessons, with staff modeling expectations in a calm and caring manner. This approach helps pupils focus on their studies, and they know that support is readily available if they encounter difficulties. The school has effective measures in place to address any incidents of bullying, which are rare, and staff take swift action to maintain a positive learning environment. The school promotes a culture of praise and rewards, which contributes to pupils' self-esteem and motivation.
The curriculum is ambitious and engaging, with a focus on themes that capture pupils' interests. While most subjects are well-structured, there are a few areas where the curriculum could be improved to ensure that pupils build cumulative knowledge more effectively over time. Reading is prioritized, with daily reading sessions and expert teaching that supports the development of phonics skills. Regular assessments help identify pupils who may need additional support, allowing them to catch up quickly.
Behaviour across the school is generally calm and sensible, with clear routines established to manage conduct. Attendance is improving, reflecting the high expectations set by school leaders. The school adopts a caring approach, working closely with families to address any barriers to attendance. The wider curriculum offers numerous opportunities for personal development, teaching pupils about mental well-being, online safety, and healthy choices. Extracurricular activities, including sports and cultural outings, enrich pupils' experiences and broaden their horizons.
Leadership at the Cedars Primary School is strong, with high expectations for educational quality shared among all staff. Parents and carers appreciate the communication regarding their children's progress. Staff receive training to enhance their skills, although there are areas where further development is needed, particularly in a few foundation subjects. The school is committed to ensuring that all staff are equipped to meet the diverse needs of pupils.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and supported. The school is encouraged to refine its curriculum in certain subjects to better identify essential content and enhance staff training to ensure consistent implementation of the curriculum across all areas. Overall, The Cedars Primary School provides a supportive and effective educational environment, fostering the growth and development of its pupils while maintaining a commitment to high standards.
