Templewood Primary School in Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, has recently undergone an inspection on December 13 and 14, 2023, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has shown significant improvement since its previous inspection, where it was rated as requiring improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, leadership and management, and early years provision have all been rated as good, while personal development has been rated as outstanding.
Pupils at Templewood Primary School express enjoyment in attending this welcoming environment, where diversity is valued and positive relationships foster a sense of safety. The staff's genuine care for students is evident, contributing to a positive attitude towards learning. Pupils engage respectfully with one another, demonstrating a willingness to listen and respond to different viewpoints. The curriculum challenges students and supports their overall achievement.
The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including clubs for sign language, magic, football, and musical theatre, allowing pupils to explore their interests and develop leadership skills. Opportunities such as becoming bronze ambassadors, sports leaders, or reading buddies further enhance their personal development. The school encourages participation in various sporting events and community activities, fostering a sense of belonging and responsibility among pupils.
In terms of academic provision, the school has made rapid improvements in its curriculum, which is ambitious, broad, and balanced. It is designed to be relevant to the pupils and builds on their previous learning. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that subject-specific vocabulary is explicitly taught in some subjects. This gap can hinder pupils' ability to articulate their knowledge accurately.
The school provides effective support for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, ensuring they learn alongside their peers and make strong progress. Reading is prioritized, with a consistent and rigorous phonics program in place. Pupils begin learning to read in Reception, and their progress is closely monitored to ensure they are reading appropriate materials. Many pupils leave the school as competent readers, thanks to targeted support and a rich variety of reading materials available.
The introduction of a new behavior policy has positively impacted pupil behavior, with a notable reduction in reported incidents. The school emphasizes the importance of behavior from the early years, ensuring that routines are well understood. Parents are engaged in this process, aligning with the school's approach to behavior management. Attendance rates have improved significantly, reflecting the school's commitment to ensuring all pupils are present and engaged.
Templewood Primary School offers numerous opportunities beyond the curriculum, including well-planned trips and guest speakers from various industries. These experiences enrich pupils' understanding of different subjects and inspire them to engage with their community. The leadership team is clear about their roles and responsibilities, contributing to the school's rapid progress. Staff receive regular training, and their workload is considered when implementing new initiatives.
The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. Overall, Templewood Primary School has demonstrated significant progress and commitment to providing a high-quality education. However, it is essential for the school to focus on explicitly teaching subject-specific vocabulary to enhance pupils' understanding and communication skills further.
