Harris Primary Academy Haling Park, located in Croydon, Surrey, has been recognized as an outstanding school following its recent inspection on September 20 and 21, 2023. The headteacher, Rob Hyneman, leads the school, which is part of the Harris Federation. This federation is overseen by Sir Dan Moynihan, the chief executive officer, and a board of trustees chaired by Lord Harris of Peckham. The school has a strong reputation for providing a positive and engaging learning environment where pupils are eager to attend and participate.
Pupils express a genuine enjoyment of school, eagerly anticipating interactions with their friends and teachers. This enthusiasm is evident even among the youngest learners in the early years, who quickly adapt to their new routines. The school prioritizes safety and teaches students to make responsible choices. Leaders encourage pupils to take on responsibilities, such as selecting a charity to support through their Community Champions initiative, demonstrating their commitment to social awareness and community involvement.
The curriculum at Harris Primary Academy is designed to be broad and ambitious, extending beyond the national curriculum. Leaders have carefully structured the curriculum to ensure that pupils develop essential knowledge and skills progressively from early years through Year 6. For instance, Year 6 pupils engage in preparatory work that equips them for the transition to Year 7 across all subjects. This thoughtful approach fosters high motivation among pupils, who strive to excel in their studies, resulting in excellent academic outcomes.
Respect is a fundamental value within the school community, where kindness and appreciation for diversity are celebrated. Staff maintain high expectations for pupil behavior, and students respond positively, managing their conduct effectively. This results in focused learning environments where minimal time is lost to disruptions. The school’s commitment to behavior management is evident, with routines established from the start of Reception Year, ensuring consistency and fairness across the school.
Leaders have implemented a comprehensive approach to teaching that emphasizes the importance of knowledge retention. Teachers possess strong subject knowledge and receive ongoing training to enhance their instructional practices. Lessons begin with activities that prompt pupils to recall previously learned information, reinforcing their understanding. For example, Year 4 pupils learning Roman numerals were able to build on their prior knowledge from Year 3, demonstrating the effectiveness of this approach.
Reading is a key focus, with systematic instruction in phonics starting in Reception Year. Teachers read to pupils daily, and those who require additional support are quickly identified and provided with tailored assistance. This ensures that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, have access to the same high-quality curriculum and achieve commendable progress.
The school promotes a rich array of extracurricular activities that enhance the educational experience. Pupils are encouraged to participate in various activities, including library visits, museum trips, and theatre outings, ensuring a well-rounded education. Leadership roles, such as pupil parliament representatives and digital leaders, are enthusiastically embraced by students, fostering a sense of ownership and leadership within the school community.
Staff at Harris Primary Academy are dedicated and proud to be part of the school, benefiting from robust support and professional development opportunities. The local governing body and trust board hold leaders accountable, ensuring that the school maintains its high standards. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, creating a safe and nurturing environment for all pupils.
Overall, Harris Primary Academy Haling Park exemplifies excellence in education, characterized by a strong commitment to pupil development, high academic standards, and a supportive community atmosphere. The school continues to thrive as an outstanding institution, providing a solid foundation for its pupils' future success.
