Headley Park Primary School, located in Bristol, has recently undergone its first inspection since becoming an academy. The inspection took place on October 1 and 2, 2024, and the school received positive evaluations across various categories. The quality of education was rated as good, as were behavior and attitudes, while personal development was deemed outstanding. Leadership and management, along with early years provision, were also rated good. The headteacher, Jessica Swain, has been in her position since September 2024, and the school is part of the Cathedral Schools Trust, which provides additional support and oversight.
Pupils at Headley Park Primary School express pride in their inclusive and welcoming environment. The school sets high expectations for all students, who respond positively and achieve well. The concept of Headley Park habits is emphasized, encouraging pupils to be ambitious, responsible, and respectful. Positive behavior is promoted throughout the school, with pupils demonstrating politeness and good manners. They actively engage with the school's kindness pledge, which fosters understanding and empathy among students. This positive behavior is evident in both classroom settings and social interactions, starting from the early years where children learn to take turns and follow instructions.
The school prioritizes the safety and well-being of its pupils, fostering warm relationships with adults and providing avenues for students to express any concerns. Various extracurricular activities enrich the students' experiences, including clubs such as choir, film, and pottery. Opportunities for leadership roles, such as play leaders and house captains, contribute to building confidence and a sense of responsibility among pupils.
The headteacher has successfully brought stability to the school following a period of leadership changes. The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, ensuring that pupils acquire essential knowledge from early years through to Year 6. The school's commitment to personal development is exceptional, with a focus on equality and diversity. Events are organized to inspire pupils about future career possibilities, and initiatives like the Headley Park passport encourage character development through community involvement and participation in events.
Reading is a central focus, beginning in Nursery with activities that build phonetic awareness. The school provides support for pupils who may fall behind, ensuring they can catch up quickly. Older students articulate how reading enhances their vocabulary and understanding of the world. The mathematics curriculum is also well-designed, with regular assessments to gauge pupil understanding and support their learning progression.
While most subjects are taught effectively, some areas require improvement in staff subject knowledge to ensure consistent delivery of the curriculum. This has led to gaps in knowledge for some pupils. The early years curriculum is well-structured, but certain activities and interactions need to be more focused to enhance children's learning experiences.
The school has established effective systems to support pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, adapting learning to meet individual needs. Positive attitudes towards learning are evident, with pupils eager to discuss their favorite lessons. Attendance is monitored closely, and the school collaborates with families to address any concerns.
Local governors and trustees maintain a clear vision for the school, holding it accountable and supporting staff development. Parents and carers appreciate the school's role in the community and the care shown by staff. Overall, the inspection highlighted the school's strengths while identifying areas for further development, particularly in ensuring all staff have the necessary subject knowledge and that the early years curriculum is implemented effectively.
