Highbury Primary School, located in Portsmouth, Hampshire, has been evaluated as a good institution following its inspection on December 1 and 2, 2021. The school emphasizes the personal development of its pupils, fostering qualities of good citizenship and respect among students. Parents appreciate the school's focus on building character, with staff using animal heroes to instill values that guide student behavior. Pupils, even at a young age, articulate these values and demonstrate an understanding of kindness and inclusivity. The school environment is supportive, with adults readily available to help resolve any issues, contributing to a sense of safety and happiness among students.
The enthusiasm for learning is evident among pupils, who take pride in their educational experiences. They engage actively in lessons and are encouraged to be resilient and ambitious in their academic pursuits. The school offers diverse opportunities, such as forest school activities, which enhance the learning experience. In the early years, children receive a strong foundation, particularly in communication skills, which are prioritized by the staff. Phonics instruction begins early, with books tailored to the sounds children have learned, fostering confidence and fluency in reading.
Older students benefit from a well-structured reading program that exposes them to challenging texts and helps them develop a rich vocabulary. Mathematics instruction is similarly well-organized, with teachers demonstrating strong subject knowledge and providing clear explanations. While most subjects have a coherent curriculum, some areas require further development to ensure that all pupils build on their prior knowledge effectively.
The school has established a positive culture that supports pupil flourishing, with consistent behavior management strategies in place. This results in minimal disruption during lessons, allowing students to focus on their learning. The leadership team emphasizes the importance of social skills and prepares pupils for life in modern Britain through initiatives like the pupil parliament and lessons on healthy relationships.
Governors play an active role in supporting the school, ensuring resources are managed effectively while maintaining a focus on educational quality. They challenge leaders regarding pupil progress in core subjects but recognize the need for more comprehensive information on learning across the curriculum.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff trained to identify and respond to potential risks. The school fosters a culture of awareness regarding mental health and well-being, equipping pupils with knowledge about managing various risks.
To improve, the school must ensure that all subjects are coherently planned to provide adequate guidance for staff, enabling pupils to build on their learning consistently. Additionally, subject leaders need to evaluate the effectiveness of curriculum implementation to identify gaps in pupil understanding. Adaptations for pupils with special educational needs must be consistently applied across all subjects to enhance their learning experiences.
Overall, Highbury Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a quality education that nurtures both academic and personal growth, while also recognizing areas for further development to enhance the learning journey for all students.
