Mandeville Primary School, located in St Albans, Hertfordshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 13 and 14 October 2021. The school fosters a welcoming environment where pupils from diverse backgrounds feel valued and respected. The presence of Molly, the school dog, contributes to a calm atmosphere, helping students settle in each morning. The positive relationships among pupils and staff are evident, with kindness and courtesy being core values. Pupils are well-informed about bullying and feel confident that any issues will be addressed promptly by the staff. Their behavior is commendable both in lessons and during playtime, reflecting a supportive school culture.
The curriculum at Mandeville Primary is designed to engage students and cater to their interests. Pupils actively participate in lessons, sharing their ideas and demonstrating a keen desire to learn. Teachers are attentive to their students' needs, ensuring that they are well-supported academically and personally. Parents express high levels of satisfaction with the school, appreciating the effective communication and the handling of any concerns. The overwhelming majority of parents would recommend the school to others.
Leadership at Mandeville Primary is dedicated and focused on providing quality education. Leaders have carefully planned the curriculum to make learning relevant and interesting, utilizing the local area to enhance educational experiences. They have identified essential knowledge for pupils and structured the teaching accordingly. Evidence from pupils' work and discussions indicates that they understand and retain what they learn. Regular assessments by teachers help monitor pupil progress, particularly in English and mathematics, where the quality of work is high. However, there is a need for improvement in the presentation and quality of work in other subjects.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are making good progress, thanks to the tailored support provided by staff. The school has implemented strategies to help these pupils achieve their potential. Additionally, the school emphasizes the importance of revisiting challenging concepts, particularly those that were difficult during remote learning. Teachers encourage pupils to articulate their learning, which deepens their understanding.
The reading curriculum is particularly strong, with younger pupils quickly acquiring phonics knowledge to read accurately. Teachers provide ample opportunities for practice, and older pupils show enthusiasm for reading, benefiting from a diverse selection of books. Regular assessments ensure that any pupils at risk of falling behind receive timely support.
Mandeville Primary effectively utilizes its local environment to enrich learning experiences, allowing pupils to connect with historical events and figures. The school promotes personal development through various opportunities, including trips and cultural events, fostering a broader understanding of the world and British values.
Governance at the school is robust, with governors actively engaging with leaders and holding them accountable for educational quality. Staff training is prioritized to ensure effective execution of their roles.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with a strong culture of safety permeating the school. Staff are well-trained and aware of their responsibilities, ensuring that pupils are protected and supported. The school maintains thorough records of safeguarding checks and procedures.
While Mandeville Primary School excels in many areas, there is a need to enhance the quality of writing across all subjects to ensure consistency. Leaders should focus on raising expectations for written work in foundation subjects to match the high standards seen in English. Overall, Mandeville Primary School continues to provide a positive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
