New Horizons Primary School, located in Portsmouth, Hampshire, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on July 11 and 12, 2023. The school provides a safe, caring, and happy environment where pupils enjoy learning. The ethos of the school is encapsulated in its starfish logo, which encourages students to strive to make a positive difference each day. The leadership and staff maintain high expectations for pupil behavior and engagement, which most students meet successfully.
The early years provision is particularly strong, with young children quickly learning essential rules, routines, and social skills. The school offers a variety of trips and clubs that enhance the learning experience. Pastoral care is a notable strength, prioritizing the physical and mental well-being of pupils. Staff are approachable, fostering trust and open communication, which helps address any issues, including bullying, effectively. The school emphasizes the importance of safety, including online safety, and is committed to improving attendance, particularly for those who struggle.
The leadership team is united in its ambition to provide high-quality education. They have made significant improvements in curriculum delivery, ensuring it is challenging and meets the needs of all pupils. Subject leaders are knowledgeable, and the curriculum is well-structured, allowing pupils to build essential knowledge progressively. Teachers are effective in their instruction, focusing on vocabulary development across subjects and ensuring that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities have access to the full curriculum.
The early years environment is vibrant and inviting, promoting purposeful activities and positive relationships. Staff work diligently to enhance children's language and communication skills. The school prioritizes reading instruction, starting as soon as children enroll. However, some staff require further training to consistently support pupils who struggle with phonics. While most pupils exhibit polite and sensible behavior, there are instances where staff could reinforce expectations for optimal learning behavior more consistently.
The school promotes personal development effectively, teaching pupils about safety, healthy eating, and the importance of exercise. Pupils participate in various enriching experiences, including residential trips and community projects, which foster respect and responsibility. The governing body is deeply committed to the school and its community, ensuring that leaders are held accountable for continuous improvement. Staff express pride in their work environment and benefit from professional development opportunities that consider their well-being and workload.
The safeguarding arrangements are robust, with a strong culture of safety established. Staff are well-trained to identify signs of harm and report concerns promptly. Leaders work closely with families and external professionals to support vulnerable pupils effectively. Minor weaknesses in record-keeping have been addressed swiftly, and thorough checks are conducted on staff appointments.
To improve further, the school must ensure that pupils at the earliest stages of reading receive adequate support to catch up quickly. Additionally, a small group of vulnerable pupils needs to improve their attendance to avoid falling behind. Leaders are tasked with rigorously implementing attendance policies and collaborating with parents and local authorities to enhance school attendance. Overall, New Horizons Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive learning environment for all its pupils.
