How Wood Primary and Nursery School in St Albans, Hertfordshire, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on March 2 and 3, 2023. The school provides a safe and nurturing environment where pupils feel well cared for by the staff. The pupils exhibit politeness and friendliness towards each other and adults, creating a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers. They demonstrate a keen enthusiasm for learning, engaging actively in various subjects and appreciating the innovative teaching methods employed by their educators. The school’s values of respect, kindness, and a commitment to learning are embraced by the entire school community.
The curriculum is well-structured and ambitious, with leaders identifying essential knowledge for pupils to learn across most subjects. This logical organization allows teachers to plan lessons that build understanding over time, enabling pupils to make connections and apply their knowledge in different contexts. The early years provision is also effectively planned, providing children with thoughtfully designed activities that promote learning. However, in a few subjects, the curriculum planning lacks clarity, leading to inconsistencies in teachers’ understanding of the knowledge pupils should acquire. This can hinder the effectiveness of learning in those areas.
Teachers generally demonstrate confidence in their subject knowledge, but some areas require further development. Leaders have not provided sufficient guidance or training to enhance teachers' expertise in delivering certain subjects. While teachers routinely check pupils’ understanding and address misconceptions, there is a need for more targeted support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Although these pupils follow the full curriculum, the identification of their learning steps and the monitoring of their progress require improvement.
Behaviour in the school is generally good, with clear expectations set by adults. Pupils adapt quickly to routines and display positive attitudes towards learning. They engage well in lessons, although there are instances where some pupils may need reminders to stay focused. The school promotes respect for diversity, teaching pupils about different cultures and religions, and encouraging them to appreciate differences. Opportunities for responsibility, such as participation in the school council, are valued by pupils.
The school offers various extracurricular activities, including trips and visits from guest speakers, which broaden pupils' horizons and enrich their educational experience. The curriculum also emphasizes the importance of reading, with effective teaching methods in place. Pupils are matched with appropriate reading materials, allowing them to practice their phonics knowledge and develop fluency and comprehension skills.
Leaders and governors are aware of the school’s strengths and areas for improvement. They actively seek advice and support from external sources to enhance the school’s performance. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to concerns regarding pupil safety. Pupils know whom to approach if they have worries and are educated on staying safe online and in their local community.
To further improve, the school needs to ensure that all teachers possess the necessary expertise to deliver the curriculum effectively. Additionally, there should be a focus on setting clear and meaningful targets for pupils with special educational needs, along with regular monitoring of their progress. Leaders must also clarify the essential knowledge in all subjects and ensure that lessons build effectively on prior learning. Overall, How Wood Primary and Nursery School provides a supportive and engaging learning environment, with a commitment to continuous improvement in educational outcomes for all pupils.
