Highfield Church of England Primary School, located in Southampton, has undergone significant improvements since its previous inspection, which rated it as inadequate. The recent inspection in July 2022 resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good, with outstanding ratings in behavior and attitudes, personal development, and early years provision. The school is committed to instilling values of love, service, and trust in its pupils, fostering a positive and inclusive environment where children feel safe and valued. Pupils enjoy attending school, forming friendships easily, and demonstrating kindness and respect towards one another. The strong relationships between staff and pupils contribute to a supportive atmosphere that promotes individual progress.
The school has established high expectations and clear routines, leading to a calm and purposeful learning environment. This structure enables pupils to behave consistently well and achieve academically. The active school council empowers pupils to voice their opinions and influence school decisions, further enhancing their sense of belonging and responsibility. Following the last inspection, the acting headteacher and her team have worked diligently to address identified weaknesses while also enhancing other areas of the school's operations. Staff well-being has been prioritized, resulting in a revitalized workforce that collaborates effectively.
The curriculum is engaging and ambitious, particularly in the early years, where it lays a strong foundation for future learning. Children are encouraged to be curious and independent, demonstrating impressive concentration and resilience. The curriculum is well-planned and sequenced, ensuring that key knowledge and skills are developed progressively from Reception through to Year 6. However, some subjects are not taught as consistently as others due to varying levels of subject knowledge among teachers. Leaders recognize the need for targeted professional development to enhance staff expertise and confidence in these areas.
Reading is a central focus at the school, with ample opportunities for pupils to engage with books. The well-stocked library provides a calm space for reading, and parents are actively involved in supporting their children's reading at home. Phonics instruction is prioritized from the start of Reception, ensuring that pupils receive consistent and effective teaching. Those who struggle with reading receive additional support, allowing them to catch up quickly.
Beyond academics, the school offers a diverse range of extracurricular opportunities that enrich pupils' experiences and foster character development. Pupils learn about British values and demonstrate a mature understanding of democracy and the rule of law. They engage in community activities, such as litter picking, which instills a sense of responsibility and active citizenship. The school promotes an inclusive culture where differences are embraced, and pupils are encouraged to express their views and contribute positively to their community.
Safeguarding practices have been transformed since the last inspection, with staff receiving comprehensive training and clear policies in place. Leaders work collaboratively with external partners to ensure timely support for pupils and their families. Pupils are educated on how to keep themselves safe and feel confident in seeking help when needed.
While the school has made significant strides, there are areas for improvement. Some subjects require more consistent implementation, and leaders need to develop a strategic plan for enhancing staff subject knowledge and leadership at all levels. Monitoring and evaluation processes also need to be strengthened to ensure that actions taken are precisely focused on areas requiring improvement. Overall, Highfield Church of England Primary School has made commendable progress and is well-positioned for continued success.
