Millbrook Park Primary School, located in London, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 15 and 16, 2022. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils are happy and eager to attend. They take pride in their school community and feel valued as individuals. The inclusive ethos of the school ensures that all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, are welcomed and supported. The leadership team maintains high expectations for all pupils, and staff collaborate effectively to achieve the best outcomes for every child. Pastoral care is prioritized, helping students develop confidence and readiness for future educational stages.
Pupils exhibit good behavior in class and during break times, engaging in cooperative play. The staff promotes a healthy lifestyle and addresses any bullying incidents promptly, ensuring a safe environment for all students. The school offers a variety of extra-curricular activities, including chess, choir, drama, and Spanish, which encourage pupils to explore their interests. Opportunities for leadership and community service, such as peer mentoring and participation in the school council, are also available. Early years students learn the importance of caring for others, exemplified by their responsibility for the school guinea pigs.
The school excels in providing a well-structured curriculum that prepares children for future learning. Pupils typically leave the Reception Year well-equipped for Year 1 and beyond. The curriculum is designed to build knowledge sequentially, particularly in mathematics, where pupils develop effective calculation strategies. However, there are areas where staff confidence and subject knowledge could be improved, leading to gaps in pupils' understanding in certain subjects. In subjects like art and history, pupils build strong foundations and progress effectively, but in some areas, teaching does not consistently check for understanding, which can hinder subject-specific knowledge development.
Leaders and staff work diligently to identify pupils needing additional support, particularly those with special educational needs. These students receive timely and appropriate assistance from knowledgeable staff. The school emphasizes the importance of reading, with a strong phonics program introduced from Nursery. Staff are well-trained to support pupils in becoming fluent readers, and assessment information is used effectively to help those who need to catch up. Pupils enjoy discussing their favorite books and participate in regular visits from authors and reading patrons.
The school provides enriching experiences through planned visits and activities that help pupils learn about their environment. Staff express satisfaction with the leadership's consideration for their workload and well-being. The governing body is well-informed and committed to the school's development. Safeguarding measures are effective, with pupils feeling cared for and educated about various risks, including online safety. All staff receive regular safeguarding training, and leaders act swiftly to address any concerns.
To improve, the school needs to enhance staff subject knowledge and confidence across all subjects to ensure consistent curriculum implementation. Addressing gaps in pupils' knowledge and understanding in certain areas is essential for their academic growth. Subject leaders should support teachers in using assessment information effectively to clarify misconceptions and secure understanding. Overall, Millbrook Park Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
