Hillview Primary School, located in Hucclecote, Gloucester, has been inspected and continues to be recognized as a good school. The inspection took place on December 13 and 14, 2023. Pupils at Hillview Primary School are reported to be happy and feel safe, demonstrating confidence in sharing their concerns with staff. Parents and carers appreciate the school’s nurturing environment, often describing it as having a family feel. The school provides quality education and care, particularly for the youngest children in the nursery, known as HEY.
Students are motivated to embody the school’s motto of striving to be their best. They take pride in their achievements, which are celebrated through various recognitions such as being named Star of the Week or for exceptional writing. The house system, named after local hills, fosters a sense of belonging and teamwork among pupils. The school maintains high expectations for behavior and conduct, with most students meeting these standards. They are eager learners who listen attentively, resulting in minimal disruption during lessons.
Pupils enjoy taking on responsibilities, such as serving as play leaders or welcoming younger students. These roles help develop their leadership skills. Additionally, students engage in charitable activities, enhancing their understanding of social responsibility. The curriculum at Hillview Primary School is broad and ambitious, carefully sequenced from early years through to Year 6. This structured approach allows pupils to build on their prior knowledge effectively.
While the school has identified key knowledge and skills for most subjects, there are areas where the curriculum lacks clarity regarding what should be learned and when. For instance, in art and design, while pupils learn about painting, they do not progressively develop their painting skills over time. This gap in curriculum precision can hinder the depth of knowledge pupils acquire in certain subjects. Although teachers generally use assessments effectively to address misconceptions, the lack of a precise curriculum in some areas limits the effectiveness of assessments.
Most teachers possess the necessary subject knowledge, and where there are gaps, school leaders are providing professional development to address these. Teaching is clear and utilizes subject-specific vocabulary well. In the Reception Year, there is a strong emphasis on communication and language, preparing pupils well for subsequent stages of their education.
Reading instruction begins as soon as pupils join the school, with books that match their phonetic knowledge. Those needing additional support receive it, enabling them to read accurately and fluently. The school fosters a love for stories and literature from early years, with older students expressing enthusiasm for various texts, including Greek mythology.
The school effectively identifies the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, adapting the curriculum to meet these needs successfully. Pupils learn about friendship, respect for diverse family structures, and the importance of positive behavior. The personal, social, and health education program equips students with knowledge about maintaining physical and mental health.
Beyond academics, pupils benefit from a variety of extracurricular activities, including clubs and performances, ensuring all students can participate in community and cultural experiences. Governors are aware of the school’s strengths and areas for improvement, holding leaders accountable for their work. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, while Hillview Primary School excels in many areas, it must refine its curriculum in certain subjects to enhance the depth of knowledge and understanding for its pupils.
