Belmore Primary Academy, located in Hayes, Middlesex, underwent an inspection on November 14 and 15, 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, reflecting a consistent standard of education and care. The head of school, Lawrence Hyatt, leads a dedicated team within the Middlesex Learning Partnership, which provides additional support and oversight through its chief executive officer, Ben Spinks, and a board of trustees chaired by Jacquie Smith.
The school fosters a positive learning environment where leaders maintain high expectations for student achievement. Pupils demonstrate enthusiasm for their studies and exhibit respectful and considerate behavior towards one another. The school community is characterized by a calm and friendly atmosphere, with staff promptly identifying students who may require additional support, whether for academic or behavioral needs. The use of a feelings box allows students to express their concerns, and staff are quick to address any issues, ensuring that pupils feel safe and supported.
Students are encouraged to take on leadership roles, with opportunities to participate in the pupil council and serve as prefects. These roles allow them to contribute positively to school life, including leading initiatives such as road safety campaigns and presenting awards to peers who exemplify the school’s values. The school also emphasizes the importance of broadening students' experiences through educational visits, including trips to various places of worship, promoting respect for the diverse backgrounds represented within the school community. A wide array of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art, enriches the students' educational experience, with the school choir performing in concerts alongside other schools.
The curriculum at Belmore Primary Academy is comprehensive, covering a wide range of subjects. Leaders have carefully considered the knowledge and skills that pupils should acquire, and established routines support effective learning. High-quality resources are utilized to enhance the educational experience, and staff workload is taken into account when implementing changes to school policies. Teachers possess strong subject knowledge and actively encourage the use of technical vocabulary, addressing misconceptions and providing clear explanations to deepen students' understanding. In the early years, adults effectively model language use, fostering communication skills among young learners.
The school has implemented a well-structured program for teaching early reading and phonics, with staff receiving essential training to ensure consistency in delivery. Pupils are taught to use phonics accurately, enabling them to read fluently. Assessments are employed to identify gaps in learning, and additional support is provided to those who need it, allowing them to catch up quickly. While older pupils engage with a variety of texts from the school library, younger children learning phonics have access to resources that support their development. However, there are instances where access to a diverse range of reading materials could be improved, which may limit opportunities for fostering a love of reading.
The school is committed to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), working with external professionals to ensure appropriate resources and strategies are in place. Staff in the early years promptly identify children with SEND and provide tailored support to help them learn alongside their peers. Nonetheless, there is some variation in the implementation of strategies for supporting these pupils, and at times, lessons may progress to more complex concepts before ensuring a secure understanding of prior content.
Belmore Primary Academy offers a comprehensive personal, social, and health education program, including age-appropriate discussions on relationships and body changes. Leaders collaborate with external organizations to enhance this program, and staff are trained to address sensitive topics effectively. The school actively encourages participation in enrichment opportunities, tracking attendance at clubs and activities to ensure all pupils are engaged.
Attendance is a priority, with strong routines in place to promote regular school attendance. Leaders are diligent in following up on absences and collaborating with outside agencies to support families in overcoming barriers to attendance. The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
In summary, Belmore Primary Academy provides a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils. While the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement, particularly in enhancing access to a wider variety of reading materials and ensuring consistent support for pupils with SEND. The commitment to high standards and the well-being of students is evident throughout the school community.
