Haberdashers’ Knights Primary School, located in Bromley, Kent, has recently undergone its first inspection since becoming an independent primary school. The inspection, conducted on December 5 and 6, 2023, concluded that the school is performing well across various aspects, receiving a rating of good in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The principal, Graham Gibson, leads the school, which is part of the Haberdashers’ Academies Trust South, overseen by CEO Jan Shadick and a board of trustees chaired by Nick Scarles.
Pupils at the school express enjoyment in their learning experiences, attributing this to the creativity and engagement of their teachers. They actively participate in cultural events and appreciate the well-organized play areas that promote safe and friendly interactions during recess. The school fosters a positive environment where high expectations are set for pupil behaviour and achievement. Staff are dedicated to teaching students various self-regulation techniques, ensuring that pupils feel supported and safe. Opportunities for pupils to take on responsibilities, such as house and eco-captains, contribute to their sense of pride and belonging within the school community.
The curriculum at Haberdashers’ Knights Primary is comprehensive and aligns with national standards, allowing pupils to explore subjects like science through hands-on investigations. Leaders are currently reviewing the sequencing of content in some subjects to enhance pupils' learning outcomes. The school effectively identifies pupils who may need additional support, ensuring that those with special educational needs and disabilities are included in the same learning experiences as their peers. Teachers emphasize the importance of vocabulary and comprehension, although there are instances where assessment systems could be improved to address misconceptions more promptly.
In the early years, staff inspire imaginative play, helping children develop essential skills. However, there are occasions when interactions do not fully support vocabulary and communication development. The school is committed to enhancing these interactions to strengthen children's language skills. Reading is a priority, with staff receiving training to improve pupils' reading abilities, although the impact of these initiatives is still being evaluated.
The school promotes respectful relationships between pupils and staff, encouraging a culture of readiness for learning. Attendance has significantly improved due to the leadership's focus on ensuring pupils arrive at school regularly and on time. The school also emphasizes character development, teaching values such as personal responsibility and mutual respect while addressing issues of discrimination.
Staff appreciate the professional development opportunities provided by the school and trust, although some subject leaders are still acclimating to their roles. There is a clear plan to enhance subject leadership capacity, ensuring that leaders can effectively support teachers in delivering the curriculum. Governance is strong, with trustees demonstrating a solid understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and their welfare prioritized. However, the school recognizes the need for ongoing improvements, particularly in the consistency of checking pupils' understanding during lessons and the oversight of teaching quality in certain subjects. Additionally, enhancing vocabulary development in early years interactions remains a focus for improvement. Overall, Haberdashers’ Knights Primary School is making significant strides in providing a quality education and fostering a supportive environment for its pupils.
