Henbury View First School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 29 November 2023

The child is at the heart of this inclusive school. The mantra that 'every child matters, every moment counts' shines through. Pupils flourish at this school and are proud to be part of it. The school creates an atmosphere built on mutual respect and trust. Staff have high expectations of all pupils and as a result, pupils achieve well. Pupils' behaviour is exemplary. Children fully understand the school's values of 'belong, believe, behave' from the moment they start in the Reception Year. Pupils support and care for each other during their learning and social times. They are courteous to adults and each other. Pupils work and play together happily. They know that the school will not accept bullying or unkindness. On the rare occasions there are squabbles, these are resolved quickly. Pupils delight in the opportunity to take on positions of leadership and responsibility, such as eco warriors and the school council. They undertake these roles with pride. Pupils know that their voice is heard, and their views and ideas listened to. This develops a strong sense of identity and community. From the very beginning, pupils learn what it means to be active and responsible citizens.

What the school should improve

• Pupils' writing is not well developed across the curriculum. As a result, they do not demonstrate the depth of subject knowledge they have learned through their written work. The school must ensure that pupils develop their writing across all areas of the curriculum.
• Over time, governors had not held school leaders accountable. As a result, during this time the improvements needed in the school slowed. The new local governing body and trust must ensure that systems are in place to provide an effective level of challenge to school leaders.

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