Headley Park Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 1 October 2024

Pupils are proud to attend this inclusive and welcoming school. The school has high expectations for what all pupils can achieve. Pupils rise to meet these expectations and achieve well. They understand how the 'Headley Park habits' enable them to be ambitious, responsible and show respect. The school promotes positive behaviour. Pupils are polite and well mannered. They confidently recite the school's 'kindness pledge' and understand how this helps them to be understanding of others. Pupils behave well in lessons and around the school. This starts in the early years where children take turns and follow instructions well. Pupils feel safe. They build warm and respectful relationships with adults. Pupils know they can speak to trusted adults, such as a member of the 'safeguarding team' or use 'worry boxes' to share any worries or concerns. Pupils enjoy the wealth of experiences they have, which go beyond the academic curriculum. They participate in a wide range of clubs, such as choir, film and pottery. Pupils relish the opportunities they have to become play leaders, house captains and to represent the school in sporting competitions. They say these roles give them confidence and make them feel trusted.

What the school should improve

• In a few subjects, teachers are less secure in their subject knowledge. In these subjects, teachers present learning less clearly and the checks they make on learning are less secure. Pupils find it difficult to remember their learning and have gaps in their knowledge because of this. The trust needs to ensure that teachers continue to receive appropriate support to strengthen their subject knowledge further.
• The curriculum in the early years is not yet implemented as the school intends. Some activities and adult interactions are not sharply focused on exactly what children need to learn. As a result, some children do not develop important knowledge and skills as well as they could. The trust should continue to ensure that all children benefit from a carefully implemented early years curriculum and that staff receive the support they require to do this.

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