William Davies Primary School, located in London, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 20 and 21 October 2021. The school is characterized by a nurturing and inclusive environment where strong relationships are fostered between staff, pupils, and their families. This supportive atmosphere is particularly beneficial for the significant number of pupils who join mid-year, ensuring that all students feel valued and secure. The overwhelming support from parents and carers further enhances the school community.
The leadership team, including teachers and governors, maintains high expectations for all pupils, encouraging them to work diligently and achieve their best. Pupils display enthusiasm for learning, remaining attentive and focused during lessons. Any minor behavioral issues are promptly addressed by staff, contributing to a calm and respectful school environment. Pupils are friendly, polite, and courteous, expressing that they feel safe and that instances of bullying are rare. They trust that staff will effectively resolve any concerns they may have.
Pupils are encouraged to take on various responsibilities, such as prefects, librarians, and school councillors, which promotes teamwork and aligns with the school’s motto of achieving more together. The school places a strong emphasis on developing well-rounded individuals, offering numerous educational trips to museums, theatres, and music events that enrich the learning experience.
The curriculum at William Davies Primary School is ambitious and carefully designed, based on the national curriculum. Subject leaders have outlined key knowledge and skills for pupils to acquire, ensuring that lessons build on prior learning. For instance, in art, pupils develop techniques in their sketchbooks, while in mathematics, they engage in problem-solving to deepen their understanding. The school’s leaders actively monitor the effectiveness of the curriculum and its impact on pupil learning, making adjustments as necessary to address any gaps in knowledge.
In the early years, children settle well, benefiting from stimulating indoor and outdoor learning environments. Staff prioritize the development of spoken language and communication skills, fostering collaboration among children. A strong focus on reading is evident, with phonics instruction beginning in Reception. Staff are well-trained to support pupils in their early reading stages, ensuring that those who struggle receive the necessary assistance to catch up.
The school is committed to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, adapting teaching methods to ensure inclusive learning. Additionally, pupils who are new to the school and learning English as an additional language receive tailored support to enhance their language skills.
Leaders also prioritize the wider development of pupils, teaching them about physical and mental health, including the importance of a healthy diet. The school offers various sports clubs, promoting physical activity and well-being.
Staff well-being is a consideration for school leaders, who take steps to reduce workload and create a supportive work environment. Staff express pride in their work and collaborate effectively for the benefit of all pupils. Governors play an active role in monitoring the school’s performance, ensuring that the needs of all pupils are met.
The safeguarding arrangements at William Davies Primary School are effective, with a strong culture of safety. Staff are well-trained and understand their responsibilities in keeping children safe. Pupils are educated about online safety and know they can approach adults in the school with any concerns.
While the school excels in many areas, there are occasional gaps in pupils’ knowledge due to content not being covered in previous years. Leaders are encouraged to continue refining the curriculum to address these gaps swiftly, ensuring that all pupils receive the support they need to succeed. Overall, William Davies Primary School is a good school that fosters a positive learning environment and prioritizes the well-being and development of its pupils.
