Hillmead Primary School, located in Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 20 and 21, 2024. The school is characterized by a nurturing and inclusive environment where pupils are happy and motivated to meet high expectations. The dedication of the staff is evident as they provide clear explanations and check for understanding, which contributes to the pupils' overall achievement. The students display politeness and respect for diversity, showing an understanding of their classmates' additional needs and supporting one another in their achievements.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities that help pupils develop a range of interests and build confidence. These activities include quiz club, cheerleading, trampolining, drama, hockey, netball, and football. Pupils take pride in showcasing their talents, whether through musical performances or sports. They also demonstrate a mature awareness of global issues, evolving into thoughtful citizens as they progress through their education. Parents have expressed satisfaction with the progress their children make and the self-belief they gain during their time at Hillmead.
The curriculum at Hillmead is ambitious and well-structured, with leaders clearly outlining the essential knowledge pupils are expected to learn. Teachers build on prior knowledge effectively, ensuring that new content is introduced in a way that enhances understanding. For instance, in design and technology, pupils advance from simple tasks in early years to more complex projects in later years, which helps them achieve well. The teaching of reading is particularly strong, with targeted support for those who need to catch up. Early years education focuses on developing communication and language skills, with adults interacting effectively to enhance vocabulary acquisition.
Pupils enjoy reading and are exposed to a diverse range of authors and genres, which fosters a love for literature. As they become more fluent, they employ various strategies to comprehend texts, leading to strong reading outcomes by the end of key stage two. The school adapts the curriculum to meet the specific needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Visual resources are utilized to support communication and understanding, ensuring that all pupils can access the curriculum alongside their peers.
While the overall teaching is effective, there are instances where tasks set for pupils do not align with their abilities, resulting in some not achieving their full potential. Addressing this inconsistency is essential for ensuring that all pupils receive appropriately challenging work. Nevertheless, the curriculum is generally well-taught, allowing pupils to develop crucial skills and retain knowledge over time.
Attendance at Hillmead is good, with staff diligently addressing any issues and providing support to families. Pupils exhibit positive behavior both in and out of lessons, and staff are skilled in managing those who require additional behavioral support. The school promotes online safety and well-being, teaching pupils about various religions and diverse themes, which fosters respect and understanding among students.
The governing body is actively involved in the school’s improvement efforts, regularly visiting to monitor progress. Leaders have implemented strategies to reduce staff workload, which has been well-received by the staff. Safeguarding measures are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, Hillmead Primary School continues to provide a high-quality education, fostering a supportive and engaging atmosphere for its pupils.
