Nash Mills Church of England Primary School, located in Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on November 23 and 24, 2022. The school provides a positive environment where pupils are eager to learn and demonstrate good behavior. They embody the school’s values of wisdom, hope, dignity, forgiveness, and community. The pupils express happiness in attending school and appreciate the variety of extracurricular activities available, including cooking, choir, drama, and sports. They take pride in representing the school in competitions and cultural events, and the staff ensures that all pupils have opportunities to participate in school activities, fostering an inclusive atmosphere.
The school has established a supportive community where older pupils help younger ones on the playground, promoting a sense of belonging and safety. Instances of bullying are rare, and when they occur, staff address them promptly and sensitively. Pupils feel secure and know whom to approach with concerns. The school emphasizes the importance of collaboration and teaches pupils to manage their behavior effectively. They learn to respect diversity and understand the significance of working together positively.
Leaders at the school prioritize reading, ensuring that every pupil learns to read effectively. Significant investments have been made in resources and staff training. Early years pupils are systematically taught phonics, enabling most to achieve the necessary reading standards by the end of Year 1. Older pupils enjoy selecting diverse texts that reflect various cultures and families. The curriculum is well-structured, with leaders clearly identifying the knowledge they want pupils to acquire across subjects. This approach allows pupils to develop their skills and understanding effectively.
In subjects like history, the curriculum incorporates local context, enhancing relevance and engagement. However, there are areas where pupils do not consistently grasp important vocabulary, which can hinder their ability to connect prior knowledge with new learning. This inconsistency can affect the quality of their work and their confidence in completing tasks. The school recognizes the need to ensure that vocabulary is clearly understood and that high expectations are maintained across all subjects.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities follow the same broad curriculum as their peers, with teachers adapting activities to ensure accessibility. Parents and carers express satisfaction with the support provided to these pupils. In early years, while most children achieve well, there are occasions when adults do not fully utilize opportunities to extend children’s vocabulary and understanding during planned activities. This can lead to some children developing only a basic understanding of the tasks.
The school promotes positive behavior and values, with a strong emphasis on friendship and democracy. Staff feel valued and supported in their professional development, contributing to a positive working environment. Governors maintain a strategic vision for the school, regularly monitoring its strengths and areas for improvement. Parents and carers hold the leadership team in high regard, reflecting a strong community connection.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff receiving regular training and knowing how to report concerns. Leaders respond swiftly to safeguarding issues, ensuring that vulnerable pupils receive the necessary support. Pupils learn about safety, including road safety and online safety, and feel comfortable discussing worries with trusted adults.
Overall, Nash Mills Church of England Primary School provides a nurturing and effective educational environment, with a commitment to continuous improvement and the well-being of its pupils. The school is well-regarded by the community and demonstrates a strong foundation for future growth and success.
