Gearies Primary School, located in Ilford, received an outstanding rating during its first inspection, which took place from September 30 to October 1, 2014. The school, which opened in 2013 following the amalgamation of a former infant and junior school, has quickly established itself as a high-performing institution. The leadership and management of the school are recognized as outstanding, with the headteacher and senior leaders fostering a strong team spirit and a shared understanding of the school’s aims and high expectations. This collaborative approach has driven rapid improvements across the school.
The behavior and safety of pupils are also rated as outstanding. Pupils demonstrate a clear understanding of the high standards expected of them and consistently meet these expectations. They exhibit positive attitudes towards learning and are well-prepared to work collaboratively. The school has implemented effective strategies to ensure that pupils maintain good behavior, even during less supervised times. The absence of exclusions since the school opened highlights the effectiveness of its behavior management policies.
Teaching quality at Gearies Primary School is outstanding, with teachers consistently delivering engaging and thought-provoking lessons. The curriculum is rich and exciting, enabling pupils to make connections between different subjects. Teachers are adept at adapting lessons to meet the needs of all pupils, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to succeed. The school places a strong emphasis on reading and writing, with pupils encouraged to discuss and share their ideas, which enhances their learning experience.
Pupil achievement is also outstanding. Children enter the nursery with skills below the typical level for their age, but they make remarkable progress, with nearly all achieving a good level of development by the end of the Reception year. The school’s performance in national assessments is impressive, with a high proportion of pupils reaching expected levels in reading, writing, and mathematics by the end of Key Stage 2. Disadvantaged pupils achieve as well as their peers, demonstrating the school’s commitment to ensuring that all students receive the support they need to succeed.
The early years provision is outstanding, characterized by responsive planning that meets the individual needs of children. Staff prioritize the development of social skills and ensure that children learn how to interact positively with one another. The early years leader has a comprehensive understanding of each child’s needs, which informs the planning of learning opportunities.
Governance at Gearies Primary School is strong, with governors actively holding school leaders accountable for their performance. They possess a thorough understanding of the school’s progress and contribute to its self-evaluation. The school’s relationship with parents is positive, with high levels of support for the school’s initiatives and activities.
Overall, Gearies Primary School exemplifies excellence in education, providing a nurturing environment where pupils thrive academically and socially. The school’s commitment to continuous improvement and high standards ensures that it is well-equipped to prepare its pupils for future challenges.