Holly Hill Primary and Nursery School, located in Selston, Nottinghamshire, has been recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on November 21 and 22, 2023. The school is characterized by a positive and thriving environment where care and respect are emphasized as core values. Pupils understand and embody these values, which are integral to the school's ethos known as The Holly Hill Way. This commitment to fostering a supportive community is evident in the students' behavior and their collaborative efforts in learning.
The school prioritizes diversity and inclusion, ensuring that its curriculum reflects these principles. Assemblies are utilized to reinforce the importance of these values, and the school provides a selection of literature that promotes equality. Parents and carers express high levels of satisfaction with the school's inclusive approach, often highlighting the nurturing atmosphere that resembles a family. They appreciate the school's dedication to providing necessary support for their children and the recognition of student achievements during significant events.
Academically, pupils are encouraged to develop both personally and intellectually, thriving within the school community. The curriculum is designed with ambitious goals, preparing students for their future educational journeys. Engaging and challenging lessons contribute to positive attitudes among pupils, who take pride in their work and enjoy the variety of subjects offered. Reading is a focal point of the curriculum, with early phonics instruction and support for those needing additional help, ensuring that all students can progress in their literacy skills.
The school employs effective strategies to help pupils retain new knowledge, breaking down information into manageable steps. However, there are instances where opportunities for oral rehearsal of learned material are insufficient, which can hinder some pupils' ability to recall important information. The school is committed to addressing this area for improvement.
Holly Hill Primary and Nursery School demonstrates a strong commitment to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum is adapted to ensure these students achieve their potential, with staff providing additional assistance to reinforce key knowledge. The school is actively working to enhance attendance rates, closely monitoring pupil attendance and communicating with parents to promote the importance of regular school attendance.
A wide range of enrichment activities is available, including sports, cookery, and art clubs, which are well-received by both pupils and parents. The school's music curriculum has seen increased participation in the choir, reflecting the students' enthusiasm for the arts. The school council plays an active role in gathering pupil feedback and engaging with the local community, fostering a sense of belonging and understanding of diverse cultures.
Leadership at Holly Hill Primary and Nursery School prioritizes staff well-being, actively seeking input from teachers to create a supportive work environment. This positive atmosphere contributes to a cohesive team dedicated to the school's mission.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The inspection highlighted the school's strengths while also identifying areas for growth, particularly in enhancing teaching strategies to support knowledge retention. Overall, Holly Hill Primary and Nursery School continues to provide a quality education, fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment for its pupils.
