Belleville Primary School, located on Belleville Road in Battersea, London, has recently undergone an inspection on the 2nd and 3rd of March 2022, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of outstanding. This is the first inspection under section five of the Education Act 2005, as the school had not been previously inspected. The school serves a diverse population of pupils aged three to eleven and operates as an academy converter, having converted to this status in 2012.
The inspection highlighted that pupils at Belleville Primary School feel safe and thrive in their educational environment. The staff exemplify the school’s motto, which emphasizes a relentless drive for improvement, excellence, and equality. Pupils demonstrate respect and kindness towards one another, contributing to a safe and mature atmosphere both in classrooms and throughout the school. They are well aware of different types of bullying and know how to seek help if they ever feel unsafe, although incidents of bullying are extremely rare.
The curriculum at Belleville is ambitious and well-structured, allowing pupils to develop detailed knowledge and understanding over time. The school offers a rich array of projects that engage pupils and encourage them to produce work of a very high standard. Pupils express enthusiasm for the curriculum and participate in a wide range of after-school activities, including chess, musical theatre, ballet, Mandarin, lacrosse, and crochet. Many of these activities are led by specialist teachers and coaches, providing pupils with opportunities to explore and develop their talents beyond the school environment.
Pupils are encouraged to take on additional responsibilities, such as representing their peers on the school or eco council. This involvement helps them understand democratic principles and the importance of having a voice in decision-making processes. The curriculum is designed to not only meet but often exceed national expectations, with leaders clearly identifying the key concepts and vocabulary that pupils should learn at each stage of their education. This knowledge is sequenced effectively, allowing pupils to revisit and build upon what they have learned over time.
In mathematics, for instance, younger pupils practice counting, which lays the foundation for understanding addition and subtraction. As they progress, older pupils apply this foundational knowledge to more complex calculations involving fractions, decimals, and percentages. Similarly, in science, younger pupils learn about different animal groups, while older pupils use this knowledge to design and create aerodynamic models, demonstrating an understanding of scientific principles.
The school places a strong emphasis on developing pupils’ speaking and listening skills. In the early years, children are encouraged to respond to questions in full sentences, which builds their confidence in communication. This focus continues throughout the school, with opportunities for dialogue and debate integrated into the curriculum. For example, pupils studying ancient philosophers engage in discussions about Aristotle’s concept of perfection, fostering critical thinking and confidence in expressing their views.
Reading is prioritized at Belleville, with staff trained to teach reading effectively. This ensures that pupils read with fluency and accuracy. Early years children regularly practice phonics, which helps them gain confidence in reading and learning new sounds. Pupils who struggle with reading are quickly identified and supported to catch up with their peers. The school also emphasizes the importance of personal development, helping pupils understand how to stay safe physically and emotionally, as well as the significance of equality and challenging discriminatory behavior.
The leadership at Belleville is strong, with the trust board and local governing body working collaboratively to support and challenge school leaders. Staff members express pride in their work at the school, appreciating the professional development opportunities provided and feeling that their workload is well managed. The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to concerns promptly. The curriculum also includes lessons on staying safe, including online safety, ensuring that pupils are well-informed about potential risks.
Overall, Belleville Primary School is a thriving educational institution that prioritizes the safety, well-being, and academic success of its pupils. The school’s commitment to excellence is evident in its ambitious curriculum, supportive environment, and strong leadership, making it an exemplary model of primary education.
