Bowmansgreen Primary School, located in London Colney, St Albans, Hertfordshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 12-13, 2019. The school is characterized by a caring and friendly environment where pupils from diverse social and ethnic backgrounds thrive together. The leadership and staff maintain high expectations for both academic performance and behavior, fostering a culture of respect and kindness among students. Pupils demonstrate enthusiasm for learning, actively participating in lessons and presenting their work with care. The school promotes a safe and happy atmosphere, with clear rules that encourage positive behavior, resulting in minimal instances of bullying or disruption.
Parental feedback indicates strong support for the school, with many parents expressing satisfaction and recommending it to others. Pupils engage in various extracurricular activities, including caring for school pets and participating in educational visits that enhance their learning experiences. The breakfast club is well-attended, helping students start their day positively.
The school excels in several areas, including effective collaboration among staff, leaders, and governors, all of whom are committed to the success of every pupil. The new headteacher and deputy headteacher are focused on improving teaching and learning, providing support to new subject leaders, and ensuring that teachers receive appropriate training. The phonics instruction in early years and key stage one is particularly strong, enabling children to develop reading skills early on. The structured reading program ensures that pupils read daily, fostering confidence and fluency.
Mathematics instruction is varied, with teachers checking understanding throughout lessons. However, there are instances where the most able mathematicians are not sufficiently challenged. In science, the curriculum is well-planned, and pupils enjoy hands-on investigations, although there is room for improvement in challenging the most able students.
The school effectively supports disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs, maintaining high expectations for all. The broad curriculum promotes understanding of the wider world, and pupils are well-prepared for secondary education and life in modern Britain. Staff well-being is prioritized, contributing to a positive work environment.
In Reception, children engage fully in activities that support their learning, such as counting and phonics. The routines established help maintain good behavior. Safeguarding is a high priority, with effective arrangements in place to protect pupils. Leaders are knowledgeable about safeguarding issues and work closely with external agencies.
To improve further, the school needs to ensure that all pupils, particularly the most able, are adequately challenged across the curriculum. Leadership skills among some new subject leaders require development, and senior leaders should support them in enhancing teaching and learning independently. Additionally, assessment practices need to be refined to better track pupil learning across all subjects.
Overall, Bowmansgreen Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a strong emphasis on pupil well-being and academic achievement. The commitment of staff and leaders to continuous improvement is evident, and with targeted efforts in specific areas, the school can enhance its effectiveness even further.
