Forest Hall Primary School, located in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, has undergone an inspection that highlights its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place from October 6 to 7, 2021, and marked a significant improvement from its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. The school is characterized by a warm and welcoming community where pupils are happy and eager to attend. Parents express positive sentiments about the school, describing it as a happy place for their children.
The staff at Forest Hall Primary School are well-acquainted with the pupils, and the leadership has crafted a curriculum that not only enhances academic knowledge but also fosters personal development. The school emphasizes the importance of reading, and pupils demonstrate enthusiasm for the carefully selected books they engage with. Leaders maintain high expectations for all pupils, ensuring that reading is prioritized throughout their education.
Pupils exhibit respectful behavior towards staff and peers, contributing to a safe environment where bullying is reported to be rare. When incidents do occur, pupils feel confident that they will receive the necessary support. The school has established effective systems and routines that create a calm and purposeful learning atmosphere, allowing pupils to concentrate and engage positively in their lessons.
Reading is a key focus for the school, with a consistent approach to phonics instruction. Leaders have set clear expectations for phonics knowledge acquisition from Reception to Year 2, and teachers regularly assess pupils to ensure retention of learned sounds. Additional support is provided to help pupils catch up quickly if needed. Opportunities for pupils to discuss their reading experiences are encouraged, fostering a love for literature.
The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, catering for the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Subject leaders have developed coherent curriculum plans that outline the knowledge and skills required for success. The sequencing of this knowledge begins in Reception and builds progressively, aiding pupils as they tackle new topics. For instance, Year 5 pupils utilize prior knowledge of number lines to understand negative numbers.
Teachers emphasize the use of subject-specific vocabulary, providing accurate definitions that empower pupils to use new terms confidently. The school has implemented systems to monitor the effectiveness of the curriculum, although the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the regularity and detail of these checks. Consequently, leaders require more precise information regarding pupils' knowledge acquisition across subjects.
Pupils achieve well across various subjects, with assessments at the end of topics ensuring they are ready to progress in their learning. Those with special educational needs receive excellent support, with their needs accurately identified and addressed by knowledgeable staff.
The governing body plays an active role in holding leaders accountable, demonstrating a solid understanding of the school's operations. The collaborative environment among staff fosters high morale and a sense of teamwork. In the early years, children are well cared for and develop foundational skills in reading, writing, and mathematics through engaging activities.
The school has established a culture of care, with staff prioritizing the welfare and personal development of pupils. Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to recognize and address potential risks. Overall, Forest Hall Primary School is a nurturing environment where pupils thrive academically and personally, although there is a need for enhanced monitoring of curriculum implementation to ensure continued improvement.
