Goose Green Primary and Nursery School, located in East Dulwich, London, has been recognized for its overall effectiveness as a good educational institution. The inspection conducted in January 2020 highlighted the school's commitment to providing a safe and nurturing environment where pupils thrive academically and socially. Parents have expressed positive sentiments about the school's caring approach, emphasizing its focus on respect, kindness, and fun. The headteacher's inspirational leadership has been pivotal in fostering a culture of high expectations among staff and pupils alike.
The school has implemented well-structured plans to ensure that students achieve success across a broad range of subjects. Teachers are dedicated to making lessons engaging and enjoyable, often incorporating well-selected children's literature into their curriculum. This approach not only enhances learning but also fosters a love for reading among pupils. The school is particularly attentive to the needs of students with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that they receive the necessary support to succeed.
Behaviour at Goose Green is commendable, with pupils demonstrating a strong sense of right and wrong. The school promotes its values through initiatives like the 'kindness' trees, where acts of kindness are celebrated. Pupils report that bullying is not a concern, and they feel confident that staff would address any issues effectively.
The leadership team has worked collaboratively to enhance academic and social outcomes for pupils. The support from governors and trustees has been instrumental in the school's ambitious planning. The school has benefited from sharing best practices within the Communitas Education Trust, which has contributed to improvements in teaching and learning.
Training and development for staff have been prioritized, with senior leaders providing valuable support to subject leaders. This has resulted in effective curriculum implementation across various subjects. The school has made significant strides in teaching reading, writing, and mathematics, ensuring that pupils are well-prepared for future academic challenges.
In the early years, children quickly develop foundational skills in reading and mathematics, enjoying their learning experiences both indoors and outdoors. The emphasis on reading is evident, with staff carefully selecting books that align with the curriculum and inspire pupils. Phonics instruction is delivered effectively, and there is a commitment to expanding the range of reading materials available to students.
While the school excels in many areas, there are plans to further enhance the teaching of foundation subjects such as history, geography, and religious education. Leaders are focused on ensuring that teachers provide pupils with the necessary subject knowledge in these areas, addressing any gaps that may exist.
Extracurricular activities are offered, including sports, art, and music, with efforts being made to ensure all pupils have access to these opportunities. The school promotes cultural awareness and social responsibility, encouraging pupils to engage in charitable activities.
Overall, Goose Green Primary and Nursery School demonstrates a strong commitment to fostering a positive learning environment where pupils can flourish. The effective safeguarding measures in place ensure that pupils feel safe and supported. The school is on a continuous journey of improvement, with leaders actively seeking ways to enhance the educational experience for all students.