Northwood Community Primary School, which includes designated special provision, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection in December 2019. The school is characterized by a warm and nurturing environment where staff are committed to ensuring that all pupils succeed. This commitment is reflected in the positive feedback from pupils, parents, and carers, who appreciate the school's ethos of inclusivity and support. Pupils describe the school as a family, where they are greeted by friendly staff and provided with healthy snacks to start their day.
The school offers a wide range of support to help pupils achieve their best, including access to a pastoral team that is available to assist with any concerns. Pupils enjoy various extracurricular activities, such as musical theatre and residential trips, which help to build their confidence and independence. The school has a strong focus on behavior, with pupils reporting that bullying is rare and that they feel safe. Anti-bullying ambassadors play a role in helping classmates resolve conflicts.
The curriculum at Northwood is broad and engaging, designed to develop pupils' knowledge and skills. Leaders have planned trips to enhance learning experiences, such as visits to museums and theatres. The designated special provision is tailored for pupils with specific learning difficulties and has been well received, with students expressing enthusiasm for their experiences. Staff ensure that learning is revisited and built upon, allowing pupils to make good progress.
Reading is a central focus of the curriculum, with early years pupils enjoying stories and rhymes. Staff utilize various methods, including puppets, to engage children in phonics and reading activities. The school has implemented a consistent approach to teaching phonics, which has helped pupils become confident readers. However, the proportion of pupils meeting the expected standard in phonics screening has been below the national average, prompting the school to provide additional support for those falling behind.
Writing outcomes have been identified as an area for improvement, with staff receiving training to enhance pupils' writing skills. Teachers are developing lesson sequences that build on knowledge and skills, and pupils are encouraged to apply their grammar and punctuation knowledge in their writing. Vocabulary development is also a focus, particularly in the designated special provision, where discussions around pictures and books help pupils use appropriate vocabulary.
The school promotes responsible citizenship, with pupils learning about various religions and engaging in community initiatives such as food bank collections. The eco council encourages recycling efforts, and pupils participate in philosophy lessons to discuss complex ideas. Overall, pupils exhibit politeness and good behavior, and the school provides support for those with challenging behavior.
While most pupils enjoy school and attendance has improved, a small number of pupils miss school frequently, which affects their learning. The school is committed to addressing this issue. Staff feel valued and supported, with opportunities for collaboration and professional development.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with regular training for staff to ensure they are aware of potential risks. The school collaborates with various agencies to provide necessary support for pupils and their families. Leaders are focused on improving assessment practices across the curriculum to ensure that pupils retain knowledge over time. The school is dedicated to enhancing attendance for those who are frequently absent, ensuring that all pupils have the opportunity to succeed.
