Giffard Park Primary School, located in Milton Keynes, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on October 15-16, 2019. The school provides a positive and nurturing environment where pupils feel happy and safe. Students express enjoyment in attending school, noting that teachers and support staff are dedicated to their well-being and academic success. The behavior of pupils is commendable, both in lessons and throughout the school, with many appreciating the new behavior rules that have been implemented. The school promotes hard work and respect for others, fostering a culture of focused learning.
Extracurricular activities play a significant role in the school experience, with pupils actively participating in after-school clubs such as bushcraft, cooking, computing, singing, dancing, and yoga. Educational trips to local parks, museums, farms, and art galleries enhance the learning experience, with students stating that these outings help to bring their education to life. The school aims to develop well-rounded individuals, and teachers have high expectations for pupil achievement. Reading is emphasized, with teachers encouraging students to engage with quality literature, which contributes to their confidence in discussing their learning.
Pupils feel secure in their school environment and are educated on internet safety. Instances of bullying are reported to be rare, and when they do occur, staff address them promptly and fairly. The school leadership prioritizes the emotional well-being of students, ensuring that they receive the necessary support.
The headteacher possesses a clear understanding of the educational quality within the school, and leaders are committed to ensuring that teaching is effective. While there are ongoing improvements to the wider curriculum, there is a recognized need for further refinement in planning across some subjects. This will help teachers to clearly identify the essential knowledge that pupils should acquire and retain over time.
Reading is a focal point of the curriculum, with early reading instruction beginning as soon as children enter school. Pupils learn phonics in a structured manner, which prepares them well for assessments. However, there is an identified need for students to apply their reading skills across all subjects to enhance their understanding of various concepts.
Teachers are adept at adapting lessons to meet the diverse needs of all pupils, including those who are disadvantaged or have special educational needs. This tailored support enables these students to succeed academically. In the early years, children thrive in a stimulating environment where they are encouraged to develop foundational skills in reading and mathematics. The school maintains effective communication with parents, who appreciate the workshops that assist them in supporting their children's learning at home.
Most pupils demonstrate excellent behavior and a strong work ethic in the classroom. For those who struggle with adherence to rules, the school provides effective support to help them improve their behavior, ensuring that learning is rarely disrupted.
The school prepares pupils for life in modern Britain by promoting understanding of different cultures and religions through planned visits. Staff are well-supported in their roles, with training provided to enhance their effectiveness. The safeguarding measures in place are robust, ensuring that pupil safety is a top priority. Leaders act swiftly to address any concerns, and the school maintains thorough checks to ensure the safety of all adults working with children.
While the school is performing well, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the coherence and sequencing of the curriculum in certain subjects. Leaders are actively working to address these issues, ensuring that all teachers have a comprehensive understanding of the curriculum to enhance pupil learning outcomes.
