Kanes Hill Primary School, located in Southampton, has recently undergone an inspection that highlighted its overall effectiveness as good. The school has made significant strides since its previous inspection, where it was rated as requiring improvement. The inspection, conducted on December 6 and 7, 2022, assessed various aspects of the school, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision, all of which were rated as good, with personal development receiving an outstanding rating.
The school is characterized by its inclusive environment and strong family ethos, fostering a caring community where pupils thrive. Staff members are dedicated to ensuring that all students succeed, and the school’s values, encapsulated in the acronym INSPIRE, are evident throughout its operations. Pupils demonstrate a clear understanding of the school rules, which emphasize being ready, respectful, and safe. They are aware of the impact of their actions on others, and initiatives like the Gentleman’s Club promote personal responsibility among students. Incidents of bullying are rare, and when they do occur, staff address them promptly to prevent recurrence.
Students at Kanes Hill engage enthusiastically with the diverse opportunities available to them, including educational trips and extracurricular activities. The school offers a variety of clubs, such as drama, music, and sewing, and many pupils learn to play musical instruments, participating in the school orchestra. Parents express high levels of satisfaction with the school, noting that their children feel safe, valued, and eager to learn.
The leadership team has effectively addressed previous inspection concerns, with trustees and the academy council providing constructive challenges and support. Staff appreciate the attention given to their professional development and well-being, which has fostered a collaborative environment for sharing expertise. The school places a strong emphasis on personal development, instilling values such as resilience and responsibility in pupils. Students learn about democracy and the importance of community involvement, participating in initiatives that support local causes.
Reading is a top priority at Kanes Hill, with early years pupils learning to read from their first week. The curriculum is designed around high-quality texts, fostering a love for reading among students. Staff members are well-trained in phonics instruction, ensuring that pupils receive the support they need to succeed in literacy. The curriculum is carefully structured to outline essential knowledge for students from early years through Year 6, with appropriate adaptations for those with special educational needs and disabilities.
While the majority of pupils demonstrate positive learning behaviors, there are areas for improvement. In a few subjects, assessment practices are not sufficiently precise, leading to gaps in understanding before new concepts are introduced. Leaders are encouraged to ensure that teachers consistently check pupils’ understanding to enhance learning outcomes.
The school has established effective safeguarding measures, teaching pupils about safety and the risks they may encounter, particularly online. Staff receive comprehensive training to identify and report concerns, creating a strong culture of safeguarding within the school. Overall, Kanes Hill Primary School is a thriving educational institution that prioritizes the well-being and development of its pupils while continuously striving for improvement in all areas.
