George Tomlinson Primary School, located in Leytonstone, London, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 8 and 9, 2023. The school is characterized by a happy, welcoming, and inclusive environment where pupils enjoy attending. Staff members maintain high expectations for all students, fostering a culture of hard work and positive attitudes towards learning. Pupils take pride in their achievements and look forward to class assemblies that showcase their learning experiences. Early years children cherish their ‘special books,’ reflecting on memorable moments and successes.
Behavior among pupils is commendable, both in lessons and during playtime, contributing to a calm and purposeful learning atmosphere. Students take their responsibilities seriously, engaging actively in roles such as librarians in the school library. Older pupils demonstrate kindness by assisting younger children in developing their reading skills. The school promotes a strong sense of community, where every individual is valued. Collaborative projects, such as building an ‘aerodynamic jet’ from wooden blocks, highlight the importance of teamwork and creativity among students.
The school has made significant strides in developing an ambitious curriculum aimed at achieving high standards across all subjects. Feedback from staff, parents, and pupils indicates a preference for the new curriculum, which has positively impacted learning outcomes. Teachers effectively sequence learning to build on prior knowledge, as seen in mathematics lessons where pupils apply their understanding of place value to solve problems involving decimal numbers. However, some subjects still require refinement, as leaders have not fully identified the essential content that needs to be taught, which can lead to inconsistencies in teaching focus.
Teachers actively monitor pupil learning during lessons, addressing misconceptions and providing additional support when necessary. For instance, adjustments in physical education activities ensure that all pupils can participate successfully. The school is committed to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, employing various strategies to facilitate their learning. Reading is prioritized throughout the curriculum, with staff trained to deliver a phonics program that helps pupils develop strong reading and spelling skills. The enthusiasm for reading is evident, with children in the nursery recalling songs and rhymes, while older pupils engage in creative projects related to literature.
Extracurricular activities enrich the learning experience, with pupils participating in trips and events that broaden their horizons. For example, Year 4 students learned about democracy at the Houses of Parliament, while Year 6 pupils explored the River Thames. The school also emphasizes emotional well-being, teaching pupils how to manage feelings and understand the importance of healthy relationships.
Leaders and governors have effectively maintained the quality of education, receiving strong support from parents and staff. Safeguarding measures are robust, with well-trained staff able to identify and respond to potential risks to pupil safety. The school has established positive relationships with families, ensuring that they receive the necessary support.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement, particularly in refining the curriculum to ensure clarity in what needs to be taught. Leaders are encouraged to enhance their curriculum planning to provide teachers with clear guidance on essential content. Overall, George Tomlinson Primary School continues to provide a supportive and effective educational environment for its pupils.
