Hodge Hill Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 13 June 2023

This is a happy and inclusive school. Pupils from all backgrounds are welcome. Leaders realise their vision, which places 'Pupils at the heart of all we think, say and do'. Leaders have built strong relationships with parents and the community. Parents are fulsome in their praise of the headteacher and staff. They appreciate all that the school does to support and involve them in their children's education. Pupils enjoy school and feel safe. They trust staff to help them if they have any worries. Pupils are polite and behave well in lessons and around school. They understand precisely what bullying is and what to do if it happens. They know that it is not acceptable to be a 'bystander' but should 'do something about it'. Leaders deal effectively with any reports of bullying or inappropriate behaviour. Pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), have positive attitudes to their learning. They are encouraged to be resilient and independent learners. For example, if they are stuck, they try hard to work it out before seeking help from a friend or teacher. Expectations of pupils are high. The well-designed curriculum, especially in English and mathematics, ensures that pupils achieve well.

What the school should improve

• Some of the youngest early readers take home books which they cannot decode. This leads to confusion and slows their progress down. Leaders should ensure that all reading books match pupils' ability and the phonic letters and sounds they learn in school.
• Leaders' checks of what pupils know and remember are less well developed in the foundation subjects compared to English and mathematics. This means that teachers do not know where gaps exist in pupils' knowledge. Leaders should ensure that there is a consistently effective approach to assessing pupils' understanding and recall across all curriculum subjects.
• Leaders have worked hard and with some success to improve attendance. However, too many pupils, especially those with SEND, miss vital lessons and do not achieve as well as they should. Leaders should continue to work with parents who do not yet see the importance of regular school attendance.

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