Hartley Primary School, located in East Ham, London, underwent an inspection on 12 and 13 October 2022, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has made significant progress since its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good.
Pupils at Hartley Primary School take pride in being part of a supportive and inclusive community. They celebrate diversity and are motivated by staff who have high expectations for their performance. This encouragement fosters a positive response from pupils, who demonstrate kindness towards one another and adults. The school environment is characterized by a strong sense of safety, with pupils feeling cared for by the staff. They appreciate the various opportunities available to them, including arts and crafts clubs and sports, which help them develop their individual talents.
The school has implemented an ambitious curriculum, particularly in the early years, where planning is effective. Leaders have identified essential knowledge that pupils need to learn across most subjects, allowing for a sequential development of subject-specific knowledge. For instance, in physical education, Year 5 pupils have deepened their understanding of ball-passing techniques. However, there are a few subjects where the curriculum has not been as effectively developed, leading to gaps in pupils' knowledge.
Teachers at Hartley Primary School are skilled in building on pupils' prior learning and possess strong subject knowledge. They effectively address misconceptions and check for understanding, particularly in mathematics, where they help pupils develop accurate calculation strategies. In the early years, teachers create a welcoming environment that encourages imagination and engagement in learning.
The school is attentive to the needs of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Leaders prioritize the well-being and academic success of these pupils, providing additional support to ensure they can access the full curriculum. However, for a minority of pupils with complex needs, there is a need for further training for staff to ensure they can provide the necessary support effectively.
Behavior management is consistent throughout the school, with pupils rarely interrupting the learning of others. Children in the early years develop confidence and independence, preparing them well for Year 1. Staff maintain high expectations, which pupils meet with enthusiasm.
Reading is a strong focus at Hartley Primary School, with staff trained to teach early reading effectively. Pupils engage enthusiastically in reading lessons, and the books provided are well-matched to their phonetic knowledge. This approach helps pupils become fluent and confident readers, with regular reading practices across the school.
Leaders and the governing body actively promote personal development, offering pupils opportunities to participate in competitions and social activities. Outings and visits to local areas enhance their learning experiences. The school teaches pupils about resilience and healthy relationships in an age-appropriate manner.
The safeguarding arrangements at Hartley Primary School are effective, with staff prioritizing pupil safety and well-being. Regular training ensures that staff are equipped to identify and address safeguarding concerns promptly. Pupils are educated on staying safe, including online safety, and feel confident sharing their concerns with adults.
To improve further, leaders should ensure that all subjects clearly identify the key knowledge pupils need to learn sequentially over time, starting from the early years. Additionally, for pupils with complex needs, it is essential that all staff receive the necessary training to provide appropriate support, enabling these pupils to make the progress they are capable of achieving.
