Sandringham Primary School in London has been recognized as an outstanding institution following its recent inspection on September 26 and 27, 2023. The school is characterized by a vibrant and supportive environment where pupils exhibit pride in their school and demonstrate exceptional behavior. The atmosphere is welcoming, and students are encouraged to form friendships and collaborate effectively. The school emphasizes respect for diverse cultures and faiths, fostering a community that celebrates each other's achievements.
The curriculum at Sandringham Primary is ambitious and exceeds national expectations. Teachers are highly knowledgeable in their subjects and adept at maximizing student potential. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive tailored support, ensuring they achieve their best outcomes. The school offers a broad range of subjects taught by specialists, including music, drama, and art, which are facilitated in purpose-built studios. These subjects play a significant role in nurturing students' talents and interests.
Students are trained to be confident presenters and performers, regularly showcasing their artwork and participating in dramatic performances. The school choir, comprising Years 5 and 6, had the honor of singing for King Charles at a local event, highlighting the school's commitment to providing enriching experiences.
Sandringham Primary is ambitious in its expectations for all students, encouraging them to tackle complex tasks beyond their educational stage. For instance, Year 4 pupils have progressed from block coding to writing text-based algorithms in computing. Younger students in Nursery and Reception benefit from weekly Spanish lessons, enabling them to engage in basic conversations by Year 3.
Teachers present new concepts clearly, allowing students to practice and reinforce their learning effectively. In science, the curriculum is designed to build essential practical skills in a logical sequence. Mathematics instruction encourages students to explore various problem-solving methods, enhancing their reasoning abilities. Teachers are attuned to their students' needs, providing effective feedback and support, particularly for those with special educational needs.
In the early years, children develop strong language and communication skills, with a focus on vocabulary building and social interaction. Reading is prioritized, with students engaging with a diverse range of texts. Those who struggle with reading receive the necessary support to become confident readers.
Pupil behavior is exemplary, with students demonstrating focus and attentiveness in class. The school environment is calm and orderly, and early years teachers utilize engaging methods to instill positive behavior habits. Leaders are actively working to improve attendance rates, engaging with families to address barriers to regular school attendance.
Students take pride in contributing to their school and local community, assuming leadership roles and participating in various initiatives. For example, Year 6 art leaders assist younger pupils with their projects, and the pupil-led school government has successfully petitioned for quieter streets around the school. Fundraising events for local and international charities are organized by students, who also participate in educational outings and extended project work in Spanish.
The school’s leadership prioritizes staff well-being, with regular meetings to discuss workload and support. Staff express high levels of job satisfaction and appreciate the efforts made to reduce their workload, particularly for those in the early stages of their careers.
The safeguarding arrangements at Sandringham Primary are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school has a specially resourced provision for pupils with autism and offers early years education for two-year-olds. This inspection marks the first ungraded assessment since the school was last judged outstanding in May 2017, reflecting its continued commitment to excellence in education.
