Ark Swift Primary Academy, located in London, is recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 25 and 26, 2021. The school fosters a close-knit community where staff and pupils are well-acquainted, creating an environment conducive to learning and personal growth. High expectations are set for all pupils, and they enjoy attending school, engaging in both learning and social activities. The school operates under three fundamental rules: ‘Ready, respectful, and safe,’ which pupils understand and strive to follow. The consistent approach to managing behavior contributes to a positive atmosphere, with pupils demonstrating good behavior both in lessons and throughout the school.
The staff at Ark Swift Primary Academy are dedicated to understanding and supporting their pupils. They provide a safe space for pupils to express their feelings and address any concerns. The school employs restorative sessions to resolve conflicts and address bullying, ensuring that pupils feel supported and valued. Parents and carers express satisfaction with the school, often describing it as a great place for their children. They appreciate the inclusive nature of school events and the commitment of staff to support both pupils and their families.
The school’s leadership, including governors and staff, collaborates effectively to deliver a well-structured curriculum that aligns with national standards. The curriculum is thoughtfully sequenced, allowing teachers to build on prior knowledge and ensure that pupils are ready to progress. Teachers are attentive to the needs of their pupils, identifying when additional support is necessary, particularly in core subjects like English and mathematics. The school has adapted its teaching strategies in response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring that pupils can catch up on missed learning.
While the school excels in many areas, there are aspects that require improvement. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive individual support; however, those with more complex needs may struggle to access the full curriculum, particularly in subjects like history and geography. The school recognizes the need to provide additional assistance to these pupils to enhance their learning experience.
The teaching of early reading is a strong point at Ark Swift Primary Academy, with phonics instruction beginning in the Nursery. Staff are well-trained in phonics, and by the end of Year 2, most pupils are fluent readers. Weaker readers receive extra support to develop their skills. The school promotes a love of reading, with various initiatives encouraging pupils to engage with books and discuss their reading experiences.
Despite the strengths in early reading and core subjects, some areas of the curriculum, such as computing and French, are not as well developed. The implementation of the new computing program has been inconsistent, and pupils have not acquired essential knowledge and skills in this area. Leaders need to clarify the learning objectives for these subjects to ensure that pupils can build a solid foundation.
Pupils at Ark Swift Primary Academy benefit from a range of extracurricular activities that extend their learning beyond the classroom. The school offers various after-school clubs and partnerships with local organizations, providing opportunities for pupils to engage in diverse experiences. The school environment is calm, promoting respect and tolerance among pupils. Discussions during circle time address important social issues, helping pupils understand the implications of negative behaviors.
The well-being of staff is a priority for school leaders, who strive to create a supportive work environment. Staff appreciate the recognition of their efforts and the manageable workload, which contributes to a positive school culture.
The safeguarding arrangements at Ark Swift Primary Academy are effective. Leaders and staff are aware of the safeguarding challenges their pupils may face and work closely with families to address these issues. The school provides mental health support and counseling services, ensuring that pupils have access to the help they need.
In summary, Ark Swift Primary Academy is a good school that provides a supportive and engaging learning environment. While it excels in many areas, particularly in early reading and community involvement, there are opportunities for improvement in the curriculum for pupils with complex needs and in certain subject areas. The school’s commitment to fostering a positive atmosphere and supporting both pupils and staff is evident, making it a valued institution in the community.
