The Belham Primary School, located in London, has been recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on June 11 and 12, 2024. Under the leadership of headteacher Alison Sprakes, the school is part of The Charter Schools Educational Trust, which oversees its operations through a board of trustees chaired by Jonathan Slater. The school fosters a welcoming environment where pupils feel happy and safe. Staff members greet students warmly and take the time to understand their needs, contributing to a positive start to each day. Respectful relationships between staff and pupils are evident, with students expressing confidence in discussing their worries with trusted adults.
Pupil behavior is commendable, reflecting the school's high expectations. The values of being helpful and trustworthy are ingrained in the school culture, with older students actively supporting younger peers. Students are enthusiastic about their learning and take pride in their achievements, resulting in strong performance across the curriculum. The school encourages pupil voice, with initiatives such as Year 5 students writing to the Mayor of London about environmental issues, fostering a sense of agency and responsibility.
The school excels in its reading program, prioritizing early literacy from the moment children enter Reception. Staff are well-trained in phonics instruction, ensuring a consistent approach to teaching reading. Regular assessments help match books to pupils' reading levels, promoting fluency and comprehension. The curriculum is well-structured, with clear progression from Reception to Year 6, allowing students to build on their knowledge and skills effectively.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Some teaching staff need to enhance their assessment practices to better identify gaps in pupils' learning. This is particularly important in mathematics, where recent outcomes at the end of Year 6 were disappointing. The school is actively addressing these issues to improve pupil progress in this subject.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are identified early, and teaching staff adapt their methods to ensure these students achieve alongside their peers. The school provides a range of extracurricular activities, including sports and clubs, which help students develop their talents and interests. The personal development program emphasizes the importance of social skills, respect, and understanding diversity, preparing pupils to be responsible citizens.
The school maintains high attendance rates by emphasizing the importance of regular attendance and working closely with families to support those who may struggle. The wider curriculum is designed to promote tolerance and respect, teaching pupils about consent and the importance of caring for one another.
The governing body and trustees are committed to ensuring all pupils achieve well, providing the necessary support and guidance to staff. The school has effective safeguarding measures in place, creating a safe environment for all students. Overall, The Belham Primary School continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing a high-quality education, with a focus on both academic achievement and personal development. The school is well-positioned to build on its successes and address areas for growth, ensuring that all pupils receive the support they need to thrive.
