Havannah First School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 3 July 2023

Pupils describe Havannah as like a 'ginormous family'. The 'no outsiders' project is recognised by pupils as an important part of school. This project promotes the belief that everyone is welcome, even if different. 'No outsiders' teaches pupils to value qualities such as equality, empathy and teamwork. Pupils say teachers expect top effort from everybody and that 'teachers push you to try your hardest and not give up.' Pupils follow the 'golden rules', like working hard, being gentle and listening. Behaviour is good in school. Teachers address occasional misbehaviour or rare instances of bullying quickly and fairly. Pupils try to copy the example of the 'Havannah heroes', who promote good attitudes to learning. These include never giving up and showing creativity. Photos of the two pupils from each class who show these characteristics appear on the weekly 'Achiever Board'. Pupils love their new building and say they are safe in every part of it. They describe the fob-entry doors, the trim trail's soft ground surface and learning how to look after their mental health. Daily runs promote good physical health. Pupils and staff are outward looking. Visits to the local care home or fundraising for cancer charities or the local hospice are regular events.

What the school should improve

• The curriculum in some foundation subjects is not as well mapped out as it is in others. Leaders need to make sure that staff identify the most important knowledge that pupils need to know and remember. Leaders must also make sure that teachers and pupils are crystal clear about the main ideas that link learning so that pupils learn well across all subjects.

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