Woodford Green Primary School has been recognized as a good school, with evidence suggesting that it could achieve an outstanding rating in future inspections. The school fosters a strong sense of community among its pupils, who express enjoyment in their relationships with staff and feel safe and heard. The behavior of the pupils is commendable, as they treat each other with respect and kindness. The staff maintain high expectations for learning and have developed a broad and ambitious curriculum that begins in the Nursery for two-year-olds. This curriculum allows pupils to gain a deep understanding of various subjects.
Pupils benefit from enriching learning opportunities, with leaders ensuring that visitors and field trips align with the curriculum. For instance, Nursery children learn about dental hygiene through a visit from a dentist, while Year 3 pupils explore ancient civilizations through a trip to Stonehenge. The school encourages leadership among pupils, with older students assisting younger ones in social interactions and volunteering for roles such as eco-warriors, where they engage in environmental care activities.
The curriculum is designed to be ambitious for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Key knowledge is clearly identified and sequenced to build upon learning over time. In mathematics, for example, early years children practice counting in various steps, integrating this into daily routines. This approach helps pupils develop a solid understanding of numbers, which they apply in more complex mathematical operations later on. Similarly, in history, pupils build their understanding of chronology from the Nursery class onward, allowing them to explain historical changes effectively.
Teachers receive subject-specific training to enhance their expertise and present knowledge clearly to pupils. They plan activities that align with the ambitious curriculum goals and regularly assess pupil learning to address misconceptions promptly. This proactive approach ensures that pupils receive the support they need to secure their understanding.
The school promotes a love of reading, with staff trained to deliver a phonics program effectively. Books are matched to the sounds pupils are learning, resulting in improved reading accuracy and fluency. Pupils are exposed to a wide range of literature, which enriches their vocabulary and supports learning across subjects. For instance, Year 2 pupils study Shakespeare, while Year 4 pupils read Street Child to complement their Victorian era studies.
Pupils with special educational needs are identified quickly and receive appropriate support, ensuring they can access the same ambitious curriculum as their peers. The school environment is safe, with clear expectations and routines that contribute to positive behavior. The personal, social, health, and economic education curriculum helps pupils understand the importance of health and well-being.
Staff satisfaction is high, with teachers appreciating the professional development opportunities available to them. The school has established effective safeguarding arrangements, fostering a culture where staff are well-trained and aware of their responsibilities. Leaders encourage open communication about concerns, and pupils learn about healthy relationships and the consequences of bullying.
Overall, Woodford Green Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education, with strong leadership, a well-structured curriculum, and a supportive environment for both pupils and staff. The school is well-positioned for future success and continued improvement.
