Brookside Primary School, located on Perth Avenue in Hayes, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 6 and 7, 2024. Under the leadership of headteacher Tishauna McMaster-Isaacs, the school is part of the Rosedale Hewens Academy Trust, which provides additional oversight and support. The trust is led by CEO Marie Ashley and a board of trustees chaired by Stewart Duguid.
The school is characterized by a welcoming and inclusive environment where every pupil is known and valued. New students, regardless of when they join, quickly feel at home due to the school's efforts to understand and meet their needs. Safety is a priority, and pupils are assured that staff are available to help with any concerns. The school promotes a culture of striving for excellence, and pupils respond positively to these high expectations, demonstrating diligence in their studies. This commitment to academic achievement is evident in the strong performance of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, particularly in writing.
Pupils exhibit good behavior both in and out of the classroom, showing courtesy and respect. Attendance rates are in line with national averages, and the school actively supports pupils in improving their attendance when necessary. The school also fosters community engagement, with pupils participating in local initiatives such as visiting care homes and organizing fundraising activities for food banks.
The curriculum at Brookside Primary is well-structured and thoughtfully designed. In most subjects, the school clearly outlines the knowledge and skills pupils need to acquire over time. This approach allows pupils to build on their understanding progressively. For example, in mathematics, early years pupils learn to identify simple shapes, which prepares them for more complex concepts in later years. While the school has made strides in curriculum development, some areas still require further embedding to ensure all pupils achieve consistently high standards.
Pupils are encouraged to connect new learning with their existing knowledge, and they are taught subject-specific vocabulary to enhance their understanding. Opportunities for practice and consolidation of learning are plentiful, particularly in subjects like history, where pupils revisit key concepts. However, there are instances where the models and examples provided in teaching could be improved to better support pupils' understanding.
The school places a strong emphasis on developing a love for reading, starting with phonics instruction in Reception. The phonics curriculum is effective and well-resourced, with staff trained to support pupils in their reading journey. Assessment practices are utilized effectively to identify pupils who may need additional support, ensuring that those falling behind receive timely assistance.
Pupils display positive attitudes towards learning and engage confidently in discussions. Disruptions to learning are infrequent, and pupils are entrusted with leadership roles, experiencing democratic processes firsthand. The curriculum also addresses important topics such as healthy relationships and online safety, equipping pupils with the knowledge to navigate these areas responsibly.
The trust is dedicated to ensuring that all pupils, regardless of their backgrounds, can fully participate in school life. Resources are allocated to enrich the curriculum experience, and the trust provides expert guidance to the school. Staff appreciate the streamlined processes that help reduce their workload and promote a healthy work-life balance.
The safeguarding arrangements at Brookside Primary are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Moving forward, the school aims to continue embedding curriculum changes and ensuring that teaching models are accurate and effective in supporting pupils' learning. This commitment to improvement will help maintain the high standards that have been established.
