North West London Jewish Day School, located at 180 Willesden Lane, London NW6 7PP, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 15 and 16 November 2022. The school has established a positive learning environment where pupils respond well to the high expectations set by leaders and staff. The students exhibit positive attitudes towards learning, and their behavior is noted as a significant strength. They demonstrate respect and kindness towards one another and the staff, actively listening and reflecting before sharing their thoughts.
Safety is a priority at the school, with pupils feeling secure and aware of how to maintain their safety. They understand the importance of reporting any concerns to an adult, and the school leaders promptly address any incidents of bullying. Parents and carers appreciate the support provided by the staff, contributing to their children's happiness. The pupils express a strong affection for their school and their learning experiences. They take pride in initiatives such as organizing the school newspaper and highlight memorable events like the whole-school visit to a Wildlife Park. The sense of community is evident, with pupils valuing the care shown by staff, as reflected in a student's comment about the supportive relationships with teachers.
The school demonstrates high ambitions for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities. Leaders thoughtfully design a broad and ambitious curriculum, focusing on essential knowledge and its timing. Teachers encourage familiarity with subject-specific vocabulary, as seen in Year 1 science lessons where pupils accurately identify different animal types. The curriculum's sequencing in subjects like history allows pupils to understand various historical periods, with Year 4 students confidently discussing Roman life. However, in some subjects, strategies to deepen understanding are still being developed and are not yet fully embedded.
Reading is prioritized throughout the school, with children introduced to the joy of books from early years. Staff receive effective training in phonics instruction, ensuring that the reading materials align with the sounds being taught. Leaders monitor assessment information in phonics and intervene quickly if any pupil falls behind. Collaborative efforts with parents promote a love of reading, exemplified by events where pupils read to their parents. Regular checks on pupils' knowledge help address misconceptions, and those with SEND benefit from skilled support tailored to their needs.
Pupils exhibit sensible behavior both in and out of the classroom, with learning uninterrupted by inappropriate conduct. Teachers foster collaboration among pupils, teaching them the importance of taking turns and following instructions. Beyond academics, pupils engage in diverse activities, such as developing circus skills and celebrating historical events. They express enthusiasm for community involvement and learning about different cultures, emphasizing the importance of healthy relationships.
Staff appreciate the understanding and support from leaders regarding their workload, with ample opportunities for professional development. The governing body is supportive and prioritizes staff well-being. The school's safeguarding arrangements are effective, with leaders quickly identifying and reporting concerns. Regular training ensures that all staff are aware of safeguarding responsibilities, and the school collaborates with external agencies to provide necessary support for pupils' mental health.
In summary, while the school excels in many areas, there is a need for continued development in certain subjects to enhance teachers' subject expertise and deepen pupils' understanding across the curriculum. The school remains committed to fostering a nurturing and effective learning environment for all its pupils.
