Hazelbury Primary School, located in Edmonton, London, has been recognized for its effective leadership and commitment to maintaining high educational standards. Under the headship of Laura Pearce, the school is part of the Connect Education Trust, which provides additional governance and support. The recent inspection conducted on 22 and 23 October 2024 confirmed that the school continues to uphold the quality of education established in previous evaluations.
The school sets high expectations for all its pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Leaders aim to provide an excellent education for every child, regardless of their background. This commitment is reflected in the positive feedback from parents, with many noting their children's enthusiasm for learning and overall well-being. Pupils at Hazelbury Primary are engaged and take pride in representing their school, demonstrating respect for their peers.
A unique feature of the school is its edible playground, where students grow, sell, and consume their own fruits and vegetables, enhancing their understanding of science and nature. The school also incorporates outdoor learning through its forest school program, allowing children to connect with the environment. The pupil parliament plays an active role in school life, advocating for improvements such as outdoor gym installations. Additionally, well-being champions support their peers in addressing any concerns they may have.
The school excels in fostering a positive learning environment where pupils are eager to learn and behave appropriately. The rewards system encourages good behavior, and early years education is designed to be engaging and creative. The curriculum is broad and ambitious, with evidence of strong academic performance, particularly in mathematics. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that all pupils retain key knowledge across subjects.
While the reading program is effective, providing systematic instruction and support for those needing extra help, the early writing curriculum requires further development. Current practices do not fully support the development of writing skills, and efforts are underway to enhance this aspect of the curriculum. The school is also focused on identifying and addressing gaps in knowledge for all pupils, including those with special educational needs.
Attendance rates have improved significantly, reflecting the school's dedication to encouraging regular attendance and supporting families in this regard. The governance structure is robust, with trustees actively engaging with school leaders, staff, and pupils to ensure effective oversight. Leaders are mindful of staff workload and well-being, which has contributed to a positive working environment appreciated by the staff.
Hazelbury Primary offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports and educational trips, which enrich the curriculum and help develop pupils' talents. The school has established effective safeguarding measures, ensuring a safe environment for all students.
In summary, Hazelbury Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education, fostering a positive school culture, and supporting the diverse needs of its pupils. While there are areas for growth, particularly in writing instruction and knowledge retention, the school is well-positioned to continue its trajectory of success and improvement.
