Discovery Primary School, located in Thamesmead, London, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 9 and 10, 2021. The school fosters a positive learning environment where pupils exhibit enthusiasm and motivation towards their education. They feel a strong sense of community and express enjoyment in attending school. The school's ethos is deeply rooted in values such as honesty, empathy, aspiration, resilience, and trust, which guide the learning process. Pupils embrace the concept of Ubuntu, emphasizing interconnectedness and responsibility towards one another, which is reflected in their active participation in roles such as school council members and junior leadership team members.
The school prioritizes the safety and well-being of its pupils, who report feeling secure and well cared for. Instances of bullying are rare, and when they do occur, staff address them promptly. The school is commended for its inclusive approach, particularly in supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Diversity is celebrated, and all pupils are welcomed, contributing to a nurturing atmosphere.
Educational visits play a significant role in the pupils' learning experience, with trips to museums, galleries, and historical sites enhancing their understanding of the world. Older pupils also benefit from residential trips, while all pupils have access to various after-school clubs, promoting a well-rounded education.
The leadership team has established clear plans for each subject, ensuring that lessons build on prior knowledge and facilitate deeper understanding. This structured approach enables pupils to retain information and apply their learning across different subjects. For instance, in history, pupils demonstrate a strong recall of key facts and can analyze changes in their local environment.
Staff are proactive in identifying pupils' learning needs early on, ensuring that no child is left behind. Additional support is provided to those who require it, particularly pupils with SEND, through tailored learning plans and specialist interventions. The school serves a community facing significant challenges, and leaders are committed to providing a wide range of activities that support pupils' broader development, including cultural celebrations and sports.
Pupils develop a strong foundation in reading, with a school-wide emphasis on fostering a love for literature. They become confident readers, discussing their favorite authors and engaging with a diverse array of texts, including classical literature. The early years, particularly in Nursery and Reception, provide a solid start, with children enjoying activities that enhance their phonics and vocabulary skills. However, there is a need for more opportunities for children in Reception to apply their reading and writing skills in practical contexts.
Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and employ effective questioning techniques to deepen pupils' understanding of complex concepts. In mathematics, pupils regularly engage in problem-solving and reasoning tasks, while younger children practice foundational skills such as counting and shape recognition.
Governance at the school is effective, with knowledgeable governors who actively support and challenge the leadership team. Parents and carers express high levels of satisfaction with the school's leadership and the education their children receive. Staff feel valued and supported, with leaders attentive to their well-being and workload.
The school's safeguarding measures are robust, with a strong culture of safety established. Staff are well-trained to recognize and respond to potential risks, ensuring the welfare of all pupils. The safeguarding team collaborates with local authorities and outside agencies to provide comprehensive support for vulnerable families.
While the school excels in many areas, there is a recognized need to enhance opportunities for children in Reception to practice their literacy and numeracy skills more effectively. Overall, Discovery Primary School continues to provide a high-quality education, fostering a supportive and enriching environment for all its pupils.
