James Dixon Primary School, located in Anerley, London, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 4 and 5, 2024. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils arrive with enthusiasm and are greeted warmly by staff and peers. The school emphasizes safety and well-being, ensuring that all students feel cared for and supported. The ethos of the school is reflected in its five golden rules, which promote honesty, kindness, respect, effort, and care for people and property.
Pupils thrive in this inclusive setting, where they are treated equally and have access to a broad curriculum enriched by educational visits that enhance their learning experiences. The school encourages collaboration among students, who enjoy discussing their learning with one another. High expectations are set for all pupils, contributing to their overall achievement.
Behavior across the school is commendable, with pupils demonstrating calmness and sensibility from early years through to Year 6. Any issues that arise are addressed promptly by adults, fostering a culture of respect and responsibility. Regular attendance is a hallmark of the school, with students expressing their happiness and support from staff as key reasons for their commitment to attending. Leadership opportunities abound, with pupils engaging in roles such as peer mediators and members of the eco-team, alongside participation in various clubs that nurture their interests and talents.
The school has developed an ambitious curriculum that caters to all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The national curriculum requirements are met, and the knowledge pupils need is sequenced effectively. Outdoor learning experiences are integrated into the curriculum, particularly in the school's forest-school area, which benefits all students, including those in specially resourced provision for pupils with SEND.
The early years curriculum is designed to engage children and promote independent learning, equipping them with the necessary skills for success in subsequent years. Staff are diligent in assessing pupils' knowledge and adapting their teaching methods to ensure all students can access the curriculum effectively.
While the school has made significant strides in mathematics instruction, leading to improved national test outcomes, there are areas for growth. Some teaching practices in Years 1 to 6 do not consistently reinforce previous knowledge, which can hinder pupils' ability to build on their learning. The school is encouraged to enhance its teaching strategies to ensure that pupils retain and recall knowledge more securely.
The phonics program is well-implemented, allowing pupils to develop reading skills from the outset. Daily phonics instruction begins in the first week of Reception, and all staff receive training to support this initiative. A strong reading culture is evident, with storytelling and carefully selected reading materials fostering a love for reading among pupils.
The school’s commitment to safeguarding is effective, ensuring a safe environment for all students. The governing body and trust maintain a clear understanding of the school's effectiveness and work collaboratively with leaders to drive improvement. Staff report that leaders are approachable and considerate of their workload, contributing to a positive working environment.
In summary, James Dixon Primary School continues to provide a good education, characterized by a supportive atmosphere, high expectations, and a commitment to inclusivity. The school is well-positioned to address areas for improvement, particularly in reinforcing knowledge retention across subjects, ensuring that all pupils can build on their learning effectively.