Howe Dell Primary School, located in Hatfield, Hertfordshire, has maintained its outstanding status following an ungraded inspection conducted on July 11 and 12, 2023. The inspection did not result in a change to the overall judgement, but it highlighted areas where the school may not currently meet the high standards expected if a graded inspection were to occur. Inspectors have recommended that the next inspection be a graded one to better assess the school's performance.
The school environment is characterized by welcoming and open pupils who demonstrate kindness and consideration towards visitors and each other. They exhibit a strong eagerness to learn and share their knowledge confidently. The pupils possess a well-developed sense of right and wrong, supported by staff who guide them in their moral development. Most students respond positively to the high expectations set by the staff, leading to good behavior and attentive listening during lessons and group activities. Incidents of bullying are infrequent, and pupils feel assured that adults will intervene effectively when necessary.
Leadership at Howe Dell Primary School is ambitious, aiming for all pupils to engage with a broad and rich curriculum. However, some subjects are still in the early stages of development, leading to inconsistencies in teachers' subject knowledge. The school encourages pupil participation in initiatives like the eco-committee, which enhances their understanding of environmental issues and promotes a sense of uniqueness among them.
The leadership team has made strides in developing subject plans and adapting teaching approaches over the past two years. Monitoring and staff training are ongoing, but some changes are still in their infancy, resulting in varying levels of subject knowledge among teachers. This inconsistency can affect the clarity of explanations and the quality of questioning that pupils receive, which is crucial for their retention of knowledge.
Regular assessments of pupils' knowledge are conducted, allowing teachers to address gaps in understanding and ensure that pupils have opportunities to revisit previous learning. This approach helps pupils retain new information and connect it with prior knowledge. In the early years foundation stage, engaging environments have been created, fostering high levels of concentration among children during learning tasks. Staff effectively use books to spark pupils' interests, which aids in developing their language and communication skills.
The school has prioritized early reading, which is a notable strength. Staff are well-trained and employ consistent teaching methods, regularly checking on pupils' progress. This proactive approach ensures that any weaknesses in teaching are addressed, and pupils who fall behind receive additional support. Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities are identified promptly, allowing for tailored support that promotes their independence and dignity.
Pupils are educated about healthy relationships, diversity, and the importance of helping others, preparing them well for life in modern Britain. The school has implemented a restorative approach to behavior management, resulting in generally positive behavior among pupils who understand their role in fostering a safe and supportive school community.
Despite the positive aspects, there are areas for improvement. Some subjects lack fully developed knowledge progression from Reception to Year 6, leading to potential disconnects in learning. Additionally, communication with parents regarding changes in the school has not been entirely effective, resulting in some parents feeling uncertain about the school's development priorities. Addressing these issues will be essential for the continued success of Howe Dell Primary School.
