Stonehill School, located in Letchworth Garden City, Hertfordshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on July 11 and 12, 2023. The school offers a nurturing and supportive environment where pupils feel safe and valued. Each morning, staff greet students as they arrive, fostering a sense of belonging and readiness to learn. The relationships between pupils and adults are built on trust, contributing to a positive atmosphere conducive to education. Students describe their school as friendly and familial, highlighting the collaborative spirit that permeates the classrooms.
The learning environment at Stonehill is characterized by active engagement. Pupils are aware of the high expectations set by their teachers and demonstrate eagerness to learn. In instances of anxiety, students can access the ‘rainbow room’ for support, ensuring their emotional well-being is prioritized. The school effectively manages interpersonal conflicts, with pupils empowered to resolve disputes independently or with adult assistance. The use of ‘voice boxes’ allows students to express concerns, reinforcing their confidence in the support available to them. Bullying is reported to be rare, further contributing to a secure learning environment.
Stonehill School emphasizes the importance of values, with pupils learning about different principles each month. The recognition of students as ‘Stonehill stars’ for embodying these values enhances their sense of achievement. Educational trips and visits are integral to the curriculum, enriching students' understanding of their local community. Year six pupils, in particular, express excitement about their upcoming residential trip, showcasing the school’s commitment to experiential learning.
Recent curriculum changes have been implemented by school leaders, focusing on specific skills across subjects. While these revised plans aim to enhance knowledge retention, they are still in the early stages of establishment. Consequently, some pupils struggle to make connections between concepts, hindering the development of deeper understanding in certain subjects. Teachers possess strong subject knowledge and utilize effective strategies to teach vocabulary and assess pupil understanding. In early years, for instance, children demonstrate their grasp of mathematical concepts through practical activities.
Reading is prioritized at Stonehill, with structured routines in place for teaching early literacy. From nursery to key stage one, children engage with stories and phonics, ensuring a solid foundation in reading. Support is readily available for pupils who face challenges, enabling them to catch up with their peers. Older students enjoy a diverse range of reading materials and participate in quizzes to assess their comprehension.
The school is committed to inclusivity, providing robust support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Leaders quickly identify individual needs and adapt lesson plans to ensure all students can participate fully. This inclusive approach fosters a sense of community, allowing all pupils to thrive academically.
Pupils exhibit positive behavior and actively engage in classroom discussions. Staff recognize and praise responsible behavior, contributing to a culture of respect and pride in their work. The school promotes understanding of diversity and equality, preparing students for life in a multicultural society. However, opportunities for developing leadership skills have been limited, particularly in the wake of the pandemic, and school council meetings have not occurred as frequently as intended.
Governors maintain a clear understanding of the school’s operations, including staff well-being, which is positively received by the teaching staff. The morale within the school is high, reflecting a supportive working environment. Safeguarding measures are effective, with all staff trained to recognize and report concerns. Leaders ensure that pupils learn about safety in various contexts, including online environments.
To enhance its educational offerings, Stonehill School should continue to refine its curriculum plans to ensure all pupils develop a comprehensive understanding of their learning. Additionally, the school should focus on fully realizing its plans for promoting personal development and leadership opportunities for students, ensuring they are well-prepared for future challenges.
