Harlands Primary School, located in Haywards Heath, West Sussex, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 10 and 11, 2023. The school fosters an environment where pupils are enthusiastic about learning, demonstrating happiness and engagement in their educational experiences. The high expectations set by the staff regarding behavior and achievement inspire students to strive for excellence in all their endeavors. The school prioritizes the safety and well-being of its pupils, ensuring they feel cared for by both staff and peers. The culture of support allows students to approach staff with any concerns, knowing they will receive assistance. Instances of bullying are rare, and pupils trust that any issues will be addressed promptly.
The leadership at Harlands Primary School is committed to providing a broad range of opportunities for students. Pupils express excitement about initiatives like the Mission I’m Possible challenges, which encourage independent problem-solving skills. Additional roles, such as giving presentations or participating in the school council, help build students' confidence and foster a sense of pride in their contributions, including fundraising for charities.
The curriculum at Harlands Primary School is ambitious and well-structured, focusing on essential knowledge and skills. There is a strong emphasis on fostering curiosity and understanding of the wider world, preparing pupils effectively for their future education. The needs of students with special educational needs and disabilities are carefully considered, ensuring they have access to a balanced curriculum and that their learning barriers are addressed promptly.
Reading is a key priority, with pupils developing a love for literature. The school employs a structured phonics program, enabling early learners to build confidence in their reading abilities. Regular assessments help identify students who may need additional support, and those in key stage one are making significant progress. However, there is a noted gap in training for some key stage two staff regarding the phonics program, which may hinder their ability to support older pupils effectively.
Mathematics instruction is strong, with pupils developing confidence and competence as they progress through the school. Early years students explore numbers and patterns, while older pupils demonstrate a solid grasp of number facts and apply them to complex challenges. The curriculum is designed to connect learning across subjects, enhancing pupils' understanding and retention of knowledge.
The school environment is orderly, with good behavior supporting effective learning. Pupils enjoy collaborative work, sharing ideas in group settings. Leaders are focused on further supporting students in understanding and regulating their emotions. The school grounds provide ample space for social interaction, contributing to a positive atmosphere.
Trustees are actively engaged in the school's operations, holding leaders accountable and ensuring staff feel supported in their roles. The safeguarding measures in place are robust, with a strong culture of vigilance among staff. Leaders respond swiftly to any concerns and collaborate with external agencies to provide necessary support for pupils and families.
While the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement. Ensuring all staff are trained in phonics instruction is essential for supporting pupils who struggle with reading. Additionally, subject leaders for foundation subjects need to evaluate their curricula to enhance oversight and impact on pupil learning. Overall, Harlands Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its students.
