Heston Primary School, located in Hounslow, received a positive inspection report, reflecting its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on the 1st and 2nd of November 2023, and the school has maintained this good rating since its previous inspection in June 2018. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good, indicating a consistent standard of performance across various aspects of the school.
The school environment is described as welcoming, with pupils quickly settling in upon joining. The behavior of the students is commendable, as they demonstrate responsibility and consideration for others. Older pupils often take on leadership roles, guiding and supervising younger students during break times. Activities such as den building, ball games, and quiet time in nature areas foster a sense of community and enjoyment among the pupils. The school promotes a culture where students feel happy and engaged.
Pupils are encouraged to express their ideas and participate in various initiatives, such as the pupil play leader group and eco-warriors. The ‘savvy-soap sellers’ initiative allows students to engage in recycling and entrepreneurship by selling soap products to parents and staff. The school places a strong emphasis on safeguarding, ensuring that pupils feel safe and supported. Concerns, including those related to bullying, are addressed promptly and effectively.
High expectations for pupil achievement are evident, with assessment information being utilized to tailor teaching and resources. This approach has resulted in pupils typically achieving high standards. Reading is a particular strength, with students having daily opportunities to read, including during break times in a designated reading area. The introduction of phonics for early readers is effective, and resources are well-matched to pupils' learning stages.
The curriculum is ambitious and aligns with national standards, covering a broad range of subjects. Leaders have carefully sequenced the knowledge to build cumulatively from early years onwards. Subject leaders collaborate closely with teaching staff to ensure effective implementation. The school also works with external professionals to support pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they have access to the same curriculum as their peers.
Pupils demonstrate a strong ability to recall previously learned content, which aids their understanding of new concepts. However, there are instances where important knowledge is not explicitly communicated, leading to some gaps in understanding. Leaders are aware of these issues and are actively working to address them.
In terms of behavior, pupils are focused and attentive during lessons, with low-level disruptions being managed effectively. Attendance is prioritized, and the school collaborates with various experts to improve attendance rates, which have shown signs of improvement.
The school provides age-appropriate education on healthy relationships and safety, including road safety and online safety. Pupils engage in team-building activities and have access to extracurricular clubs, enhancing their personal development.
The governing body is knowledgeable and receives appropriate training to support the school effectively. They fulfill their statutory responsibilities, including safeguarding duties. The arrangements for safeguarding are deemed effective, contributing to a positive school culture.
Overall, Heston Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive environment for its pupils. The school is actively working to address identified areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that all important subject knowledge is clearly communicated to close any gaps in pupils' understanding.
