The Hawthorns Primary School, located in Wokingham, Berkshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 28 and 29, 2022. The school fosters an environment where pupils feel respected and valued, contributing to their enjoyment of school life. Students demonstrate kindness towards one another and the staff, who are committed to supporting their learning and personal needs, ensuring a safe atmosphere for all. High expectations for behavior are set by the staff, resulting in good conduct both in lessons and throughout the school premises. Pupils are well-informed about bullying and know how to seek help if they encounter it, reinforcing their confidence in the support available from adults.
The leadership team is dedicated to the success of every child, and this commitment is reflected in the enthusiasm pupils show towards their learning. They take pride in their work and express confidence in discussing their educational experiences. The curriculum is designed to be ambitious and well-structured, with a focus on key knowledge that pupils are expected to learn and retain. Teachers possess strong subject knowledge, which enables them to effectively deliver the curriculum and stimulate curiosity among students.
Pupils benefit from a variety of extracurricular opportunities, taking their responsibilities seriously in roles such as school councillors and members of the green team, which promotes environmental awareness. They also engage in diverse clubs, including learning to play the ocarina, enhancing their overall school experience. The school prioritizes reading, with a carefully structured reading curriculum and well-trained staff who teach phonics from the start of the Reception year. This early focus on reading equips younger pupils with the skills to write simple sentences, while older pupils develop their comprehension abilities through guided reading sessions.
While the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement. Occasionally, teachers do not fully utilize the information they gather about pupils' prior knowledge to inform their teaching strategies. This can lead to assignments that are not sufficiently challenging, hindering some pupils from reaching their full potential. The school environment is calm and orderly, characterized by positive relationships between pupils and staff. Students are eager to learn and actively participate in lessons, contributing to a disruption-free learning atmosphere.
The school also emphasizes the development of personal skills through assemblies and extracurricular activities, such as the playground friends program, which encourages pupils to foster a positive play environment. Staff well-being is a priority for school leaders, who provide support and training to help manage workloads effectively. The safeguarding measures in place are robust, with regular training for staff and a culture of vigilance regarding pupil safety. Leaders ensure timely support for pupils and families, collaborating with external agencies when necessary.
Overall, The Hawthorns Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils. The school is well-regarded by parents and the community, with positive feedback reflecting the effective leadership and dedicated staff. Continuous efforts to enhance teaching practices and maintain high expectations will further contribute to the school's ongoing success and the achievement of its pupils.
