Wilbury Primary School, located in Edmonton, London, underwent its first inspection under the Education Act 2005 on April 18 and 19, 2023. The school has been rated as good overall, with specific areas of outstanding performance. The quality of education is deemed good, while behavior and attitudes are rated outstanding. Personal development and leadership and management also received a good rating, and early years provision was rated outstanding. The school has not been previously inspected under the current framework, having converted to an academy in April 2019.
The school environment is described as welcoming and nurturing, fostering respect among pupils, staff, and visitors. The atmosphere is calm and purposeful, attributed to clear routines and high expectations set by the staff. Pupils exhibit excellent behavior in class and during social times, demonstrating positive attitudes towards learning and embodying the school’s values of resilience and kindness. They are well-informed about bullying and know how to report incidents, with staff addressing any issues promptly. This contributes to a sense of safety and happiness among pupils, who feel supported by adults in the school.
Pupils take pride in their leadership roles, such as being playground buddies, helping peers find friends during playtime. The school values pupil input, as seen in a project where Year 5 students collaborated with leaders to enhance the outdoor space, resulting in the creation of an edible garden. A variety of clubs, including choir and African drumming, are offered to support pupils in developing their talents and interests.
The school prioritizes early reading, ensuring that all pupils learn to read fluently. The teaching of reading begins as soon as children enter the early years, with staff receiving training to effectively deliver the reading curriculum. Regular assessments help identify pupils who struggle with reading, allowing for timely support. Pupils enjoy reading, with daily storytime sessions being a highlight. The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, with clear learning objectives from the early years to Year 6. Teachers effectively deliver content, addressing misconceptions and providing necessary support.
However, some pupils struggle to retain previously taught concepts and vocabulary, leading to gaps in their learning. Leaders are encouraged to ensure that teachers help pupils retain knowledge over time, enabling them to apply what they have learned in new contexts. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive effective support, allowing them to access the curriculum alongside their peers.
Pupils demonstrate excellent behavior in lessons, showing motivation and a desire to succeed. Personal, social, health, and economic education is well-structured, teaching pupils about diverse family types and the importance of consent. The school aims to cultivate responsible and respectful citizens, promoting tolerance and respect for others' opinions.
The safeguarding arrangements at Wilbury Primary School are effective, with staff well-trained in reporting concerns. Leaders prioritize safeguarding and engage with external partners to support families and pupils. Regular updates keep staff informed about local risks. The school follows robust recruitment procedures to ensure the safety of pupils.
Overall, Wilbury Primary School has created a positive and inclusive environment for both staff and pupils. Staff feel supported and valued, contributing to a strong sense of community within the school. The inspection highlighted the school's strengths while also identifying areas for improvement, particularly in helping pupils retain knowledge and skills over time.
