Heavers Farm Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 14 June 2023

Heavers Farm is a welcoming and friendly school. Pupils play happily together at social times, showing respect and kindness. Pupils trust adults to deal with any worries that they may have. This makes them feel safe. Bullying is rare. When it does occur, it is dealt with swiftly. Leaders have high expectations for pupils' behaviour and conduct. Pupils are polite and well mannered. They take their learning seriously. This is demonstrated through their focus and attention during lessons. Leaders are ambitious for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Overall, pupils are able to talk with confidence about their learning. However, the high-quality curriculum that is now in place needs time to fully embed. Its impact is not fully reflected in pupils' outcomes in some areas in the 2022 national assessments. Pupils are well prepared for life in modern Britain. Diversity is celebrated and pupils are taught that everyone has the right to be treated with respect. Older pupils have opportunities to take on roles of responsibility, such as becoming a prefect or head pupil. Pupils relish the many opportunities they have to take part in sport and sporting events. Pupils are able to attend after-school clubs for cricket, football, basketball, athletics, gymnastics and taekwondo. They also enjoy being able to compete against other local schools in Croydon.

What the school should improve

• In some areas, leaders' expectations for the delivery of the curriculum are still embedding. Examples of this include the development of children's language in early years and the preciseness with which some support and resources are targeted for pupils with SEND. Additionally, sometimes the tasks and resources selected are not supporting pupils to recall and apply their learning, including, on occasion, in early reading. All of this is reducing how well the curriculum enables pupils to deepen their knowledge and understanding. Leaders need to continue to train staff to develop their skills and expertise in delivering the ambitious curriculum and consistently meeting all pupils' needs.
• While there are many parents and staff who are positive about the school, overall views are mixed. Leaders and governors are aware of this and should continue to embed the measures they are putting in place.

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