Surrey Square Primary School, located in Walworth, London, has been recognized as an outstanding institution following its inspection on May 4 and 5, 2022. The school prides itself on fostering a strong community where pupils, staff, parents, and carers feel a sense of pride and belonging. The behavior of the pupils is exemplary, with a culture of respect and adherence to routines that minimizes disruption in lessons. Leaders at the school maintain high expectations for all students, ensuring that they achieve well academically and develop positive attitudes towards learning. The well-being and mental health of pupils are prioritized, allowing them to engage with their education enthusiastically and tackle challenges with resilience.
Pupils are encouraged to express their concerns through reflection journals, which are addressed by adults, contributing to a supportive environment. Instances of bullying are rare, and students are confident that staff will respond effectively if issues arise. The school promotes student voice, with recent initiatives including letters to the local council regarding community issues and campaigns to raise awareness about environmental concerns related to disposable face masks.
The leadership team is dedicated to providing a high-quality education, with a focus on inclusivity for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum is carefully planned and organized, ensuring that learning objectives are clear and achievable. Early years education emphasizes personal, social, and physical development alongside foundational skills in phonics and numeracy. Vocabulary and oracy are integral to the curriculum, supporting pupils as they progress through the school.
Teachers possess strong subject knowledge and collaborate effectively to enhance their practice. They design lessons that incorporate regular assessments to gauge pupil understanding and retention of knowledge. Subjects like history have been adapted to reflect the diverse backgrounds of the pupils, making learning more relevant and engaging. Reading is a key priority, with a structured reading program in place that includes regular training for staff and targeted interventions for pupils who need additional support.
Mathematics instruction is consistent across year groups, with an emphasis on reasoning and practical application of skills. Staff are trained to support pupils with special educational needs while fostering independence in their learning. The personal development of pupils is exceptional, with opportunities for involvement in clubs and community initiatives that promote self-management and clear communication.
The school community, including staff and governors, expresses pride in their roles, with leaders taking care to consider staff well-being and workload. Safeguarding measures are robust, with clear processes for identifying and addressing concerns. Leaders are well-acquainted with the families they serve, providing support for various challenges, including immigration and housing issues. Pupils demonstrate a good understanding of safety, both in general and online, and know they have trusted adults to turn to for help.
This inspection marks the first routine evaluation since the school was deemed outstanding in 2016. The inspector engaged with various stakeholders, including leaders, governors, and pupils, to assess the school's performance comprehensively. The findings affirm that Surrey Square Primary School continues to provide an excellent educational experience, characterized by high standards of teaching, a supportive environment, and a commitment to the holistic development of its pupils.
