Hollywell Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 6 June 2023

Pupils love attending this school. They are keen to learn and appreciate how their teachers make every lesson enjoyable. Leaders have carefully established an aspirational and caring ethos. There are highly respectful and supportive relationships between staff and pupils. Pupils respond consistently well to high expectations staff set for their behaviour. They are polite, considerate and work hard in lessons. Pupils say lessons are rarely disrupted. They feel safe at all times in school. Pupils learn about bullying but say that it is exceptionally rare. Without doubt, they know adults would act quickly to stop it. Many parents comment that there are fantastic opportunities for pupils. A variety of well- planned trips and clubs enrich pupils' learning and stretch their talents. Pupils thrive on the many activities that grow their character. They enjoy the great outdoors and teamwork in forest school sessions. Older pupils talk about taking risks when ice-skating and how this helps them be more resilient. They say camping and cooking their own healthy food, using vegetables from the school allotment, increase their independence. The curriculum inspires pupils. It prepares them to be confident and caring members of society, as well as enabling them to achieve high standards.

What the school should improve

• Recent changes to the curriculum have not yet made the difference to pupils' learning that leaders intend. Pupils do not always remember the key knowledge that leaders have carefully set out. Pupils do not understand how their learning connects together as well as they might. Leaders should continue to check that the new curriculum helps pupils to understand what they are learning next and why. They should make sure that all pupils' knowledge is building well over time.

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