Houndsfield Primary School, located in Edmonton, London, has recently undergone its first inspection since opening in February 2019. The inspection, conducted on June 7 and 8, 2023, resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good, with specific areas such as personal development receiving an outstanding rating. The school has established a positive environment where pupils feel happy and safe, fostering trust between students and teachers. The behavior of pupils is commendable, characterized by calmness and purposefulness, with staff actively promoting and rewarding positive behavior.
The quality of education at Houndsfield Primary is also rated as good. Teachers maintain high expectations for student learning, and pupils are encouraged to work hard and develop a love for reading. Regular reading opportunities with adults and encouragement to read at home contribute to pupils producing quality work across various subjects. The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, aligning with national expectations. It emphasizes the development of knowledge, skills, and vocabulary, ensuring that pupils are well-prepared for future learning. For instance, in computing, pupils build foundational skills in early years that progress to more complex concepts in later stages.
Pupils at Houndsfield Primary benefit from a range of enriching activities and cultural experiences, including visits to places of worship, museums, and art galleries. They engage in musical activities, learning instruments like the ukulele and drums, and participate in programs that promote health and safety. The school prioritizes the development of pupils' language skills, identifying subject-specific vocabulary that is essential for their learning. However, there are inconsistencies in how language development is implemented across different subjects, which can affect some pupils' understanding.
The school has robust systems in place to support pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Individual plans are carefully constructed, and many pupils with SEND are successful in accessing the curriculum. However, there are instances where the implementation of support strategies could be improved, as some staff may lack confidence in adapting learning activities to meet diverse needs. This can hinder the progress of certain pupils with SEND in acquiring the necessary knowledge for more complex learning.
Reading is a key focus at Houndsfield Primary, with leaders ensuring that staff are well-trained in delivering the phonics program effectively. Pupils read books that match their learning levels, and any pupils falling behind are quickly identified and provided with targeted support to help them catch up. The school environment promotes respectful and friendly interactions among pupils, teachers, and visitors, contributing to a positive atmosphere conducive to learning.
Governance at the school is effective, with those responsible understanding their duties and holding leaders accountable for school improvement. Staff express pride in working at Houndsfield and appreciate the consideration given to their workload and well-being. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with leaders ensuring that staff are trained to recognize and report any concerns regarding pupil safety. The curriculum also addresses important topics related to safety in the community and online, promoting mental and physical health awareness.
While the school demonstrates many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Leaders need to ensure that adaptations for pupils with SEND are consistently implemented and that teachers provide sufficient opportunities for all pupils to develop their language and vocabulary skills. Overall, Houndsfield Primary School is making significant strides in providing a quality education and fostering a supportive learning environment for its pupils.
