Hamstel Infant School and Nursery

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 15 October 2024

The school's mantra of 'happy staff make for happy children' is clear to see. Children quickly form trusting and warm relationships with each other and with adults. Key stage 1 pupils are good role models for their younger counterparts. Their behaviours reflect the school's values and so they develop into caring and respectful individuals who have a clear sense of what is right and wrong. Pupils behave well in lessons and around the school. The school is ambitious for what children at this age can learn and do. Most children in the early years promptly gain independence, for instance, through playing with equipment and following the woodland trails in the outdoor learning area. The joys of exploration and discovery continue through their time at school, whether this is learning at the beach or visiting the local library. There is a wealth of activities for pupils to experience. This includes pupils who attend the special educational needs (SEN) unit. They access the school's many clubs with support. Leadership opportunities, such as being part of the media, eco- or well-being teams, help pupils learn to contribute to their community. This stands them in good stead for when they go to the junior school.

What the school should improve

• The school's strategies for raising the achievement and attendance of some disadvantaged pupils are taking time to have the desired impact. Some children and pupils are taking longer to develop their social and speech, language and communication skills. Some are not attending school regularly. The school should continue its work to resolve barriers to learning and ensure high-quality delivery of oracy so that disadvantaged pupils, like their peers, achieve well and can apply their learning in a variety of contexts.

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