Petts Hill Primary School, located in Northolt, has been rated as good overall in its recent inspection conducted on March 28 and 29, 2023. The school demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education, with particular strengths in behavior, attitudes, and personal development, both rated as outstanding. The school’s core values of creativity, compassion, courage, and community are evident in its inclusive and supportive environment, where all pupils feel valued and safe.
Pupils at Petts Hill Primary School thrive in a welcoming atmosphere that fosters a sense of belonging. The leadership team and staff are dedicated to understanding the individual needs of each pupil, ensuring that they receive an engaging education across a broad range of subjects. High expectations are set for all students, which is reflected in their enthusiasm for learning and the quality of their artistic and written work. The school promotes exceptional behavior and positive attitudes towards learning, with rare incidents of low-level disruption reported.
During social times, pupils interact positively, demonstrating respectful manners and a strong sense of community. Instances of bullying are infrequent, and when they do occur, staff address them promptly. Parents express high levels of satisfaction with the school, appreciating the quality of education and the support their children receive. Many parents report that their children are happy at Petts Hill.
The school has developed an ambitious curriculum that provides exciting learning experiences and effectively organizes content to help pupils make connections between subjects. For instance, pupils apply their knowledge of electricity in practical projects, enhancing their understanding through hands-on learning. Teaching is effective from the early years onward, enabling pupils to build their knowledge and skills progressively. However, there are areas where the sequencing of knowledge and skills could be improved to ensure coherence across all subjects.
Leaders are attentive to the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, providing tailored support and interventions, including speech and language therapy. The school prioritizes reading, with a phonics curriculum that aligns books with the sounds pupils are learning. This systematic approach helps pupils become fluent readers, and they engage enthusiastically in discussions about their favorite books.
In the early years, children quickly develop confidence and enthusiasm for learning, with effective routines in place to promote good behavior. By the end of Reception, most children achieve well and are prepared for the next stages of their education. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities that help pupils explore their interests and talents, ensuring that disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs have access to these opportunities.
The governing body supports the school’s vision and challenges leaders on various aspects of its work. However, there is a need for more rigorous scrutiny regarding the quality of education provided. The school’s safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to recognize and report any concerns regarding pupil welfare. Pupils are educated on how to keep themselves safe, including online safety.
To further improve, the school should refine its curriculum to ensure that knowledge and skills are sequenced with greater detail and precision. Additionally, the governing body should enhance its accountability regarding the quality of education, ensuring that leaders’ evaluations and improvement strategies are thoroughly tested. Overall, Petts Hill Primary School is a nurturing environment where pupils are encouraged to excel academically and personally, preparing them well for their future endeavors.
