Hollymount School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 6 June 2023

Pupils thrive at Hollymount School. They are curious and enthusiastic about learning, and they work hard. Pupils are taught that they can make a difference to the world. They demonstrate this through their social enterprise projects, the leadership roles they take on and, most importantly, by the way they behave, showing respect for each other. This makes Hollymount School a delightful place to be. Leaders use a restorative approach throughout the school. If pupils get things wrong, they are challenged to think hard about what has happened and how to put it right. Pupils are trained as peer mentors, and they help to resolve any difficulties at break and lunchtime, using the same methods as adults. Peer mentors also spot pupils who may be alone and befriend them. As a result of this highly impressive work, pupils feel safe and look out for each other. Leaders are hugely ambitious for pupils. Children in Nursery and Reception are taught how to listen, and they play together well. These routines are built upon throughout the school. Pupils take responsibility for their learning. They are keen to talk about the work they have done. They take pride in achieving well.

What the school should improve

• Leaders have taken a considered approach to curriculum development. Where the curriculum has been reviewed and embedded, it is highly effective. However, there are still a few subjects that are not yet fully developed and so are not having the impact leaders would like. Leaders should continue to develop the curriculum in all subjects to ensure it meets their intentions for learning.

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