Hillside Primary School, located in Ipswich, Suffolk, has recently undergone an inspection that highlighted several areas for improvement. The overall effectiveness of the school is rated as requiring improvement, which reflects the challenges faced in various aspects of the educational experience provided to pupils. The quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management all received the same rating of requiring improvement. However, the early years provision was noted as good, indicating a positive start for younger children.
The headteacher, Lucy Wass, leads the school, which is part of the Active Learning Trust. The trust is overseen by CEO Lynsey Holzer and a board of trustees chaired by Vic Daniels. The school serves as a central hub for the local community, fostering a diverse and welcoming environment. Pupils generally feel safe and are aware of whom to approach if they have concerns. However, instances of bullying have been reported, and while staff intervene when issues are raised, the overall behaviour of pupils does not consistently meet expected standards.
Pupils are encouraged to engage in various extracurricular activities and leadership roles, such as serving as school councillors. Despite this, there are concerns regarding behaviour during unstructured times, particularly during popular activities like football, which can lead to boisterous conduct. The school has ambitious goals for pupil achievement and has implemented detailed curriculum plans. However, the effectiveness of these plans is hindered by inadequate checks on pupils' understanding, leading to gaps in knowledge that are not always addressed.
In the early years, staff effectively track children's progress, allowing for targeted support. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities typically receive a high quality of education, although some may require additional assistance with writing. The school places a strong emphasis on early reading, with a clear scheme in place to support even the youngest learners. Regular reading opportunities are provided, and additional help is available for those who fall behind.
While most pupils demonstrate respect and kindness, there are instances of negative behaviour, particularly in response to differences among peers. The personal, social, and health education curriculum is in place to help pupils understand online safety and health, and opportunities for leadership are available. However, attendance remains a significant issue, with many pupils missing school regularly, which impacts their learning and progress.
Behaviour in classrooms and around the school is inconsistent, with some pupils disrupting learning due to inappropriate conduct. The school has experienced leadership changes that have affected the quality of education, but current leaders are committed to improving the situation. Staff feel supported and included in the school's direction, and parents have expressed positive feedback regarding recent changes.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected. However, to improve, the school must address attendance issues, particularly for vulnerable children, and ensure that all pupils receive a consistent and high-quality education across all subjects. Leaders need to enhance assessment practices to better identify and address gaps in knowledge, and the new behaviour policy must be effectively communicated and implemented to reduce incidents of poor behaviour. Overall, while there are positive aspects to Hillside Primary School, significant work is needed to enhance the educational experience for all pupils.
