Bond Primary School, located in Mitcham, Surrey, has recently undergone an inspection that highlighted its commitment to providing a high-quality education. The school aims to foster confident, lifelong learners through a well-structured curriculum that emphasizes reading and communication. This focus begins in the early years, ensuring that all pupils develop strong communication skills. Parents and carers generally express satisfaction with the school's support and the strong relationships established between the school and families, which help to promote high academic expectations and attendance.
The school has established effective behavior management strategies, resulting in respectful interactions among pupils and between pupils and staff. Established routines guide students in making positive choices, contributing to a safe and supportive learning environment. Pupils feel secure and valued, and they appreciate the supportive relationships they have with their teachers. The school also celebrates diversity through events like the Carnival festival, which fosters community spirit and cultural appreciation. Additionally, a variety of extracurricular clubs, including gardening and sports, enrich the students' educational experience.
The curriculum is well-constructed, beginning in the early years and supported by happy and motivated staff. Teachers receive valuable training that enhances their ability to deliver the curriculum effectively. The governing body is actively involved in supporting the school’s priorities, particularly in improving academic outcomes, especially in light of challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The school is focused on addressing gaps in knowledge, particularly in reading, and is committed to raising outcomes for Year 6 pupils.
The curriculum is designed with careful consideration of the knowledge and skills pupils need to progress. For instance, in art, students first learn about color before moving on to blending techniques. Resources are chosen thoughtfully to support writing, leading to the use of ambitious vocabulary in students' work. Regular opportunities for revisiting key concepts, especially in mathematics, help reinforce essential knowledge over time.
Teachers systematically assess pupils' understanding during lessons, which aids in identifying misconceptions and gaps in knowledge. However, there is room for improvement in how this information is used to adapt the curriculum, as some pupils may not fully secure all key knowledge. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are included in the same well-planned curriculum, with lessons tailored to their individual needs, allowing them to progress effectively.
Despite the school's efforts to promote regular attendance, rates remain slightly below national averages, which can hinder some pupils' learning experiences. The school is encouraged to continue working closely with families to address barriers to attendance. Additionally, while teachers have a clear understanding of pupils' learning, they need to enhance their ability to adjust the curriculum based on assessment data to ensure all pupils develop a solid grasp of key knowledge.
The school prioritizes early reading instruction, providing a well-structured phonics program that supports all pupils in making rapid progress. Additional reading sessions in key stage two help address any gaps in early reading skills. The school fosters a love for reading, with pupils eager to discuss their reading experiences.
In the nursery, children are taught clear routines that help them focus on learning. As they progress through the school, pupils demonstrate enthusiasm for sharing their work, and disruptions to learning are infrequent. The school offers various extracurricular activities and educational trips, promoting student engagement and pride in their contributions to the school community. Overall, Bond Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a supportive and effective educational environment for its pupils.
