Vicarage Primary School, located in East Ham, London, has recently undergone an inspection that has resulted in an outstanding overall effectiveness rating. The inspection took place on June 20 and 21, 2023, and the school has shown remarkable progress since its previous inspection, which rated it as good. The school is committed to its guiding principle of Be the best you can be, which is evident in the way pupils engage with their education. Teachers and leaders work diligently to foster a knowledgeable and enthusiastic learning environment across the curriculum. Pupils are provided with unique opportunities, such as attending a poetry retreat in the New Forest, where they collaborate with a poet to create their own works.
The expectations set by school leaders for pupil outcomes and behavior are exceptionally high, and this is reflected in the pupils' conduct. They demonstrate exemplary behavior, respect for one another, and resilience in overcoming challenges. From the early years, children are encouraged to strive for excellence in their learning. The school offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including first aid, gardening, drama, and rounders, which help to develop pupils' interests and sense of responsibility. The school council plays a significant role in the school community, with members respected by their peers and actively involved in initiatives such as coordinating donations to local food banks and leading assemblies on mental health and anti-bullying.
The quality of education provided at Vicarage Primary School is exceptional, often exceeding national curriculum requirements. For instance, in science, pupils engage in hands-on investigations, such as dissecting a plant in Year 3 and a sheep's heart in Year 6. The curriculum is meticulously planned to ensure a progression of knowledge and skills, incorporating ambitious concepts and key vocabulary from the early years onward. Teachers possess expert subject knowledge, allowing them to focus on the essential knowledge pupils need to grasp more complex concepts later on. This approach ensures that pupils can recall important ideas easily and apply them to new learning.
Reading is a significant focus at the school, with leaders promoting a strong reading culture. From the early years, pupils are exposed to a variety of high-quality texts, which inspire them to create their own stories. Staff emphasize building phonics knowledge and enhancing speech and language skills, providing a solid foundation for pupils to become confident readers.
The school is also committed to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Leaders identify the needs of these pupils and provide appropriate support, ensuring they can access the same ambitious curriculum as their peers. Activities such as horse-riding, swimming, and music therapy help these pupils grow in confidence and independence.
Pupils exhibit exemplary conduct, and the school fosters a culture of mutual respect. Children in the early years develop self-control and learn to engage positively with others. Routines are followed readily, and pupils support one another during lessons, enhancing their learning experience. The school teaches pupils about healthy relationships and the importance of understanding different cultures and faiths, promoting acceptance and pride in diversity.
Staff collaboration is encouraged, and leaders work to reduce workload, creating a supportive environment that staff describe as family-like. The governing body effectively supports school leaders, providing constructive challenges to ensure continuous improvement. Safeguarding arrangements are robust, with staff trained to recognize and act on any concerns promptly, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, Vicarage Primary School exemplifies excellence in education, fostering a nurturing and ambitious atmosphere for its pupils.
