Gorringe Park Primary School, located in Mitcham, Surrey, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 22 and 23, 2023. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils eagerly anticipate attending each day. They enjoy engaging in play and learning alongside their peers, feeling secure with the adults who care for them. The staff's commitment to addressing any concerns pupils may have contributes to a supportive atmosphere. High expectations are set by leaders and staff, who encourage all students to believe, achieve, and succeed. This ethos is reflected in the way pupils conduct themselves, demonstrating politeness, confidence, and articulate communication. Instances of bullying are rare, and when they do occur, staff respond promptly and effectively.
The school promotes a culture of support and inclusivity, encouraging pupils to celebrate their differences and learn about diverse backgrounds. The values of equality and diversity are integrated into daily school life. Leadership opportunities are provided for pupils, allowing them to experience democracy through the election of their pupil parliament members. These leaders have positively impacted various aspects of school life, including menu reviews and website design. The role of playground buddies further enhances the supportive environment during break times.
Gorringe Park Primary School has implemented a well-organized and ambitious curriculum that effectively supports early years' development. Leaders and staff ensure that learning in Reception and Nursery prepares children for future studies. For instance, children learn about maps in early years, which is built upon in later geography lessons. Teachers excel at breaking down knowledge into manageable steps, regularly assessing pupils' understanding and addressing any gaps. Pupils with special educational needs receive appropriate support, including practical resources and additional adult assistance. Classroom discussions are lively, and pupils collaborate well, with disruptions being infrequent.
While teaching is generally effective across most subjects, there are areas where improvements can be made. In some subjects, the delivery of the curriculum does not adequately support pupils in mastering subject-specific vocabulary, which can hinder their overall learning. Leaders are encouraged to ensure that teachers assess pupils' understanding before introducing new concepts. Additionally, while the early reading curriculum is prioritized, there are instances where struggling readers do not receive enough practice in blending sounds, which affects their reading fluency.
The curriculum is enriched with a variety of activities that promote broader development. Pupils engage in lessons that include traditional Chinese music and dance, calligraphy, and martial arts. Sports coaching aims to inspire participation in competitive sports. Staff feel supported by approachable leaders who have streamlined processes to reduce workload, including limiting email response times.
The school's safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff being vigilant and knowledgeable about potential risks. Leaders maintain thorough vetting checks for all staff, ensuring a safe environment for pupils. Pupils are educated on safety measures at school, home, and online.
To enhance the school's effectiveness, leaders should focus on improving the accuracy of pupils' understanding of subject-specific vocabulary and ensure that struggling readers receive ample practice in blending sounds. Overall, Gorringe Park Primary School continues to provide a nurturing and effective educational experience for its pupils.
