Pelham Primary School, located in Wimbledon, London, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 29 and 30, 2022. The school fosters an environment where pupils enjoy attending and typically learn well, particularly in early reading. Many parents express enthusiasm about their children’s eagerness to return to school after weekends, highlighting the positive atmosphere cultivated by the staff. The leadership team prioritizes pupil safety, and students feel secure and valued, trusting the adults around them.
The school maintains high expectations for all pupils, including their behavior. Staff consistently model positive language and behavior, which encourages pupils to demonstrate kindness and respect towards one another and adults. Instances of bullying are addressed effectively by staff, ensuring a supportive environment. Pelham Primary School offers a variety of enrichment activities designed to enhance learning and nurture pupils' interests and talents. Notable experiences include Year 3 pupils spending a night on HMS Belfast to learn about naval life and Year 6 pupils participating in a week-long trip to France to enrich their foreign language studies. Additionally, every pupil is encouraged to learn a musical instrument, allowing them to perform at a high standard.
Parents appreciate the open-door policy of the leadership team, who are present at the school gate each morning to welcome families. The school has implemented an ambitious and well-structured curriculum that reflects the diverse community it serves. For instance, during diversity week, pupils engage with various cultural, religious, and gender differences, promoting inclusivity and understanding.
Teachers generally possess the expertise necessary to deliver the curriculum effectively. In subjects like mathematics, they build on pupils' prior knowledge to facilitate new learning, breaking down concepts into manageable steps. This approach benefits all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The early years curriculum also supports children in developing knowledge across various subjects, preparing them for future learning.
While teachers typically use assessment information effectively to tailor lessons, there are instances in some subjects where pupils do not build knowledge as securely. This occurs when teachers do not ensure that pupils have mastered essential concepts before progressing to more complex ideas. Despite this, pupils demonstrate a strong commitment to their learning, actively participating in discussions and collaborating well with peers. Disruptions to learning are infrequent, and early years children exhibit curiosity and enthusiasm for their education.
Leaders and governors share a unified ambition for all pupils to achieve fluency in reading. The phonics program is implemented effectively, with children beginning their reading journey in Nursery. Regular practice reinforces their understanding of sounds, and pupils read books that align with their learning. Support is provided for those who fall behind, although there are occasions when this support does not precisely target specific gaps in phonics knowledge.
The school effectively meets the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, collaborating with early years settings to identify those requiring additional support. Leaders ensure that adaptations are made to facilitate successful learning for these pupils. Outside the classroom, pupils engage in various experiences that promote democratic principles and provide insights into the world of work.
The school leadership supports staff by managing workloads, allowing for periods without after-school meetings. Safeguarding arrangements are robust, with staff trained to recognize and address concerns promptly. Overall, Pelham Primary School continues to provide a nurturing and effective educational environment, with areas identified for improvement to enhance the learning experience further.
