Bedfont Primary School, located in London, has recently undergone an inspection on December 5 and 6, 2023, and has been rated as good in all areas, including overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school has maintained its good rating since the previous inspection in June 2018.
The school is characterized by a welcoming and inclusive environment where staff hold high expectations for all pupils. The ambitious curriculum is designed to cater to the needs of all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Pupils express enjoyment in attending school, feeling safe and supported by staff, which fosters a positive learning atmosphere. The school’s values are well understood by the pupils, who appreciate the support they receive, particularly in managing their mental and physical health.
Behaviour among pupils is commendable, with a clear understanding of the school’s values. The school has implemented effective measures to address bullying, ensuring that any incidents are dealt with swiftly. Recent changes have introduced a wider range of opportunities for pupils, who are enthusiastic about taking on responsibilities such as well-being ambassadors and prefects. The school promotes motivation through rewards for good work and encourages participation in various extracurricular activities, including trips to local parks and museums, as well as sports.
The curriculum at Bedfont Primary is broad and ambitious, allowing early years children to build a solid foundation for their education. The subjects taught align with the national curriculum, and pupils are encouraged to revisit and reinforce their knowledge as they progress through the school. Teachers demonstrate good subject knowledge and design activities that aid in retention and practice of learned concepts. However, some subjects are still in the early stages of development, and additional training is needed to ensure consistent coverage of the intended knowledge.
Reading is a significant focus within the curriculum, with staff recognizing the need for all pupils to read with confidence. The phonics program is structured to develop fluency and accuracy, with effective training ensuring that phonics is taught in a logical sequence. Support is provided for pupils who struggle, including those who join the school mid-year, allowing them to catch up with their peers. The school promotes a love of reading through library visits and competitions, ensuring that reading skills continue to develop throughout the years.
The school has established effective systems for identifying pupils with special educational needs, working closely with external agencies to provide necessary support. Staff adapt tasks and activities to meet the needs of these pupils, ensuring they have access to the same curriculum as their peers. The emphasis on high expectations for behaviour is evident, with recent changes to the behaviour policy providing additional support for pupils who may struggle. Staff training has enhanced the management of behaviour, resulting in positive relationships throughout the school.
Pupils are encouraged to learn about diversity and take on responsibilities, with older students actively supporting younger ones. The curriculum includes lessons on safety and respectful behaviour, contributing to a positive school culture. Attendance is prioritized, with most pupils attending regularly. The school is proactive in addressing any attendance concerns, collaborating with external agencies to support pupil well-being.
The leadership team has a clear understanding of the school’s strengths and areas for improvement, prioritizing actions effectively and evaluating their impact. Professional development opportunities are available for staff, who appreciate the focus on enhancing their practice. Governors are well-trained and share the leadership’s ambitions for all pupils, holding leaders accountable for their actions.
The safeguarding arrangements at Bedfont Primary are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school’s commitment to continuous improvement is evident, with a focus on providing a high-quality education for every student. Overall, Bedfont Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to fostering a positive learning environment, ensuring that all pupils can thrive academically and personally.
