Haylands Primary School, located in Ryde on the Isle of Wight, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on September 12 and 13, 2023. The school fosters a friendly and inclusive environment where pupils take pride in their community. They celebrate diversity and demonstrate empathy towards one another, creating a culture of acceptance. The school maintains high expectations for behavior, resulting in a calm and respectful atmosphere conducive to learning. Pupils are enthusiastic about their lessons, rarely interrupting the learning process, and they appreciate the feedback and rewards they receive. During break and lunchtime, students engage happily with one another, knowing they are supported by trusted adults who prioritize their safety and well-being.
The leadership and staff at Haylands Primary School have undergone significant changes but now exhibit a settled and ambitious approach towards the school’s future. Recent curriculum changes have generated excitement among both staff and parents, contributing to the pupils' overall achievement and providing them with a variety of opportunities and experiences. Pupils enjoy learning about their local area through educational trips, such as visits to Carisbrooke Castle and Amazon World Zoo, which enrich their understanding of the world around them.
The school has implemented widespread curriculum changes that are thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of its pupils. There is a clear progression in learning from pre-school through to Year 6, and staff feel well-supported in adapting to these changes. However, some subjects still lack established whole-school assessment systems, which limits curriculum leaders' ability to monitor pupil achievement effectively.
Reading is a central focus of the curriculum, and pupils demonstrate increasing fluency as they progress through the school. From the early years, children develop a love for reading, engaging with stories and phonics in a structured manner. All staff are trained in the school's phonics program, ensuring that pupils have access to reading materials that align with their learning. Those who require additional support receive tailored interventions to help them catch up.
Teachers at Haylands Primary School possess strong subject knowledge and encourage pupils to use specific vocabulary in their lessons. They effectively address misconceptions and provide targeted support to those who need it. Entry and exit tasks help teachers gauge pupil understanding and reinforce prior learning, fostering connections between different subjects.
The school is committed to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they are fully included in all aspects of school life. Robust systems are in place to identify these pupils and provide appropriate adaptations to the curriculum. The early years environment promotes independent learning, while pupils across the school confidently utilize resources to enhance their mathematical understanding.
Character development and learning behaviors are integral to the curriculum, with pupils demonstrating a strong sense of equality and understanding of right and wrong. They are encouraged to be resilient learners, embracing challenges and viewing mistakes as valuable learning opportunities. Leadership roles within the school, such as house captains and school councillors, empower pupils to represent their peers and take on responsibilities.
The arrangements for safeguarding at Haylands Primary School are effective, ensuring that pupils feel safe and supported. While the school has many strengths, it is essential to establish consistent assessment processes in all subjects to provide clear oversight of pupil learning. Overall, Haylands Primary School continues to provide a good education, fostering a positive and inclusive environment for all its pupils.