Harry Gosling Primary School, located in London, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 8 and 9, 2023. The school has a long-standing history that instills pride in its pupils, who exhibit positive attitudes towards learning. The environment is described as calm and purposeful, attributed to clear routines and high expectations set by the staff. Pupils demonstrate courteous and polite behavior, contributing to an impressive standard of conduct both in lessons and throughout the school.
The school has effectively addressed concerns regarding bullying, with pupils expressing confidence that any incidents would be promptly addressed by adults. This proactive approach fosters a safe atmosphere where pupils understand the importance of right and wrong, and they actively embody the school’s values of responsibility and teamwork. The inclusive nature of the school is evident, as it celebrates diversity and supports all pupils, regardless of their backgrounds.
In terms of academic performance, pupils are described as keen and thoughtful learners. For instance, Year 6 pupils showcased their understanding of historical topics, confidently discussing the significance of the Windrush and anti-discrimination laws. The leadership encourages pupils to take on responsibilities, valuing their opinions in school governance, such as in the development of the behavior policy.
The curriculum at Harry Gosling Primary School meets national standards and is well-structured, allowing pupils to build knowledge progressively. Reading is prioritized, with phonics instruction starting in Reception. The school has implemented a well-sequenced reading curriculum, enabling pupils to develop their phonics skills effectively. Teachers are knowledgeable and provide opportunities for pupils to apply their phonics in writing, fostering enthusiasm and fluency in reading. However, there are instances where mistakes made by pupils are not corrected swiftly enough, which can hinder their learning.
Mathematics instruction is robust, with regular opportunities for pupils to engage in problem-solving activities. Early years pupils demonstrate confidence in their numerical skills, as evidenced by their ability to follow recipes and make decisions based on counting. The curriculum is designed to prepare pupils well for subsequent educational stages, with frequent revisiting of previously learned skills.
The school is committed to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance to thrive alongside their peers. Teachers break down learning into manageable steps, facilitating the acquisition of knowledge and skills required for more complex tasks. While the school excels in many areas, there are occasions when activities do not align closely with the intended curriculum, which can detract from the learning experience.
The leadership team has established effective behavior management systems, ensuring that learning is uninterrupted. Personal, social, health, and economic education is well-structured, promoting respect and understanding of diverse perspectives among pupils. Staff members express pride in their work environment, appreciating the support provided by leaders to enhance their professional development while maintaining manageable workloads.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to recognize and report concerns promptly. The school collaborates with external agencies to support pupils and their families, ensuring a safe learning environment. Overall, while Harry Gosling Primary School demonstrates many strengths, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that all activities consistently align with the curriculum and that errors in phonics are addressed promptly to enhance pupils' reading fluency.
