Dean Field Community Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 8 February 2022

Dean Field Community Primary School is a school where pupils are at the heart of everything that leaders and staff do. Parents feel the school has been transformed. One parent summarised the strength of feeling by saying, 'teachers and staff are incredibly supportive and nurturing to the children'. Pupils are happy at school. Bullying rarely happens and, if it does, they are confident that an adult will sort it out quickly. Pupils play well together. They are proud that they can play any type of game, regardless of gender. However, sometimes a small minority of older pupils use homophobic language. Pupils access a range of extra-curricular activities. They particularly enjoy the Harry Potter and construction clubs. Leaders provide opportunities for pupils to become active citizens. School councillors, junior wardens and eco warriors feel that they make a difference. For example, school councillors ensure all pupils can make friends. Leaders have high expectations for pupils. Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are particularly helped to achieve well. Adults actively support pupils' well-being and mental health. Pupils know the motto 'I really DO matter'. One pupil summed up the views of many by saying, 'If I have a worry at night, it is okay as I will be at school tomorrow.'

What the school should improve

• Leaders have not precisely defined the most important knowledge pupils should know in some foundation subjects. Some pupils have gaps in their understanding of some important concepts as a result. Leaders should ensure that curriculum plans are carefully considered in order that pupils learn important knowledge over time.
• In some foundation subjects, such art and geography, assessment is not fully developed. This means that some gaps in pupils' knowledge are not identified quickly enough by teachers. Leaders should ensure that assessment systems are in place so that teachers check what pupils know and remember of the curriculum.
• Some pupils do not fully understand the protected characteristics. Some older pupils use homophobic language and do not understand why this is not acceptable. Leaders should further develop pupils' understanding of protected groups so that all pupils are prepared for life as citizens in modern Britain.

Read the full Ofsted report (opens in a new tab)