Hertsmere Jewish Primary School, located in Radlett, Hertfordshire, has recently undergone an inspection on the 5th and 6th of March 2024, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school, which opened in October 2019, is part of the Jewish Community Academy Trust and serves pupils aged three to eleven. The headteacher, Rita Alak-Levi, leads a dedicated team under the oversight of the chief executive officer, Gareth Jones OBE, and a board of trustees chaired by Michael Goldstein.
The school fosters a vibrant community spirit, characterized by positive interactions between staff and pupils. Each day begins with friendly greetings, establishing a welcoming atmosphere that persists throughout the school day. Older pupils take pride in assisting younger students, promoting a culture of support and collaboration. Pupils exhibit confidence and self-awareness, understanding their learning needs and encouraging one another to excel. The school emphasizes high standards of behavior, instilling good manners from an early age, although there are instances where some pupils may lose focus during lessons. Teachers are proactive in reminding students of the expected conduct.
The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, particularly in the early years, where play-based learning helps children develop independence and foundational skills in mathematics and reading. Teachers are well-trained and supported in delivering the curriculum effectively, leading to high levels of pupil engagement and achievement. However, there are areas where the curriculum is newer, such as reading, where staff expertise may not be consistently strong. While most children quickly become fluent readers, some pupils who struggle may not receive the precise support they need to catch up effectively.
The school is attentive to the needs of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), providing additional help when necessary. However, there are occasions when this support may not be perfectly aligned with individual learning requirements. Teachers adapt lessons to include extra resources and explanations, enabling SEND pupils to participate alongside their peers.
Pupils demonstrate positive attitudes towards school, reflected in their good attendance and punctuality. They adhere to school rules and learn essential social skills, such as sharing and taking turns. Older students are encouraged to take on leadership roles, contributing to the school council, which helps them understand democratic processes and make meaningful changes within the school community.
The school prioritizes the safety and well-being of both staff and pupils, creating an inclusive and happy environment. Pupils are educated about healthy lifestyles, relationships, and online safety, preparing them for future challenges. They are encouraged to set personal goals and show care for others, exemplified by their involvement in fundraising for charity.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Some subjects require better embedding of the curriculum to ensure all pupils achieve their potential. The school must provide staff with the necessary guidance and support to implement the curriculum effectively and evaluate the impact of any changes made. Additionally, the extra support for pupils should be more precisely matched to their needs to prevent gaps in learning from developing or persisting.
Overall, Hertsmere Jewish Primary School is a nurturing environment where pupils thrive academically and socially, supported by a committed staff and a strong community ethos. The school is well-positioned to continue its journey of improvement and excellence in education.
