Hillingdon Primary School, located on Uxbridge Road in Hillingdon, Uxbridge, has recently undergone an inspection on February 29 and March 1, 2024. The school has been rated as outstanding in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management, while early years provision has been rated as good. This is the first inspection under section five of the Education Act 2005 since the school converted to an academy in July 2014. The school is part of the Elliot Foundation Academies Trust, with co-principals Sabrina Kelly and Samina Saidiya leading the institution.
Pupils at Hillingdon Primary School thrive in a supportive and stimulating environment that fosters high expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school emphasizes the importance of preparing pupils for their future educational journeys. The early years program is designed to create a welcoming atmosphere that encourages exploration and learning. Students have numerous opportunities to celebrate their identities and achievements, fostering trusting relationships among peers and staff. The school maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards bullying, ensuring that pupils feel safe and supported.
The curriculum at Hillingdon Primary School is broad and ambitious, allowing pupils to build knowledge progressively. In subjects like mathematics, older students engage in complex problem-solving, while in art, the quality of work produced is exceptional. The science curriculum includes practical activities that enhance engagement and enthusiasm for learning. Teachers adapt lessons to meet individual needs, ensuring that all pupils, including those with SEND, can access the same curriculum as their peers. The early years curriculum is well-structured, focusing on relationship-building, although there is room for improvement in supporting emotional regulation among younger children.
Reading is a central focus of the curriculum, with phonics instruction beginning in Reception. Staff are well-trained in teaching reading, and pupils receive targeted support to help them become confident readers. The school exposes students to a diverse range of high-quality texts, fostering a love for reading that continues throughout their education. Teachers effectively deliver the ambitious curriculum, breaking down complex concepts to aid understanding. Regular assessments ensure that pupils grasp the material, and misconceptions are addressed promptly.
Hillingdon Primary School also prioritizes personal development, with a well-planned program that addresses sensitive topics and encourages debate on various issues. Pupils learn about safety, including online safety, and have access to clubs and enrichment activities that enhance their educational experience. The school actively monitors attendance and works with families to ensure pupil welfare.
Staff at Hillingdon Primary School express high levels of job satisfaction, appreciating the support and professional development opportunities available to them. The trust effectively holds school leaders accountable for educational quality while considering staff welfare. Parents and carers report positive experiences regarding their children's education.
The school's safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, Hillingdon Primary School demonstrates a commitment to excellence in education, providing a nurturing and challenging environment that supports the growth and development of every student. The inspection highlights the school's strengths and areas for continued improvement, particularly in early years emotional support, while affirming its outstanding status in key educational areas.
