Milton Park Primary School, located in Southsea, Portsmouth, has recently undergone an inspection on June 18 and 19, 2024, and has been rated as good overall. The school is part of the University of Portsmouth Academy Trust and is led by headteacher Wendy Fowler. The inspection highlighted several strengths, particularly in personal development and early years provision, both of which were rated as outstanding. The school has created a nurturing and inclusive environment where pupils feel safe and valued. This positive atmosphere contributes to pupils' enjoyment of school and their willingness to engage in learning.
Pupils at Milton Park Primary School demonstrate positive attitudes towards their education, showing resilience and a strong work ethic. The school has established high expectations for behavior, which are based on three simple rules: be safe, be respectful, and do your best. This framework has fostered a culture of respect and cooperation among students, leading to low levels of disruption during lessons. The school actively seeks pupils' views, ensuring they feel heard and valued, which further enhances their engagement and behavior.
The curriculum is well-structured and designed to meet the diverse needs of the student population, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school has made significant efforts to support pupils who arrive at different times throughout the year, particularly those who speak English as an additional language or are service children. Staff are well-trained and knowledgeable, providing effective support to ensure all pupils make strong progress from their individual starting points.
The inspection noted that while the school has made strides in improving academic outcomes, particularly in reading, writing, and mathematics, there are areas for further development. In some subjects, assessment strategies do not consistently ensure that pupils retain previously taught knowledge or connect it with new learning. This has resulted in some pupils not achieving their full potential in these areas. The school recognizes this challenge and is committed to addressing it through targeted actions.
The phonics and early reading programs at Milton Park Primary School are particularly strong, with pupils receiving effective instruction from the outset of their education. Reading materials are carefully matched to the phonics curriculum, allowing pupils to develop their reading skills confidently. The school also emphasizes the importance of diverse texts, helping pupils appreciate different cultures and fostering a love of reading.
In the early years, children receive exceptional support, allowing them to develop their reading and writing skills effectively. The school identifies needs early and provides additional support to help children catch up with their peers. This proactive approach has led to positive outcomes for children by the end of their Reception year.
The leadership team at Milton Park Primary School is ambitious for all pupils and staff, focusing on continuous improvement and professional development. The school prioritizes staff well-being and workload, fostering a collaborative environment that enhances teaching quality. The board of trustees and local governance committee effectively fulfill their responsibilities, ensuring strong oversight and support for the school.
Overall, Milton Park Primary School is a good school with outstanding features, particularly in personal development and early years provision. The school is committed to addressing areas for improvement, particularly in assessment practices, to ensure all pupils achieve their best. The positive school culture, strong leadership, and effective teaching contribute to a supportive learning environment where pupils can thrive.
