A Hackney primary school praised for setting pupils up to succeed ‘exceptionally well in life has kept up the standards that earned it Ofsted’s top rating. Southwold Primary School, in Clapton, has retained its outstanding status following a two-day visit by inspectors in April, having excelled in all assessment areas.
Children at the Detmold Road institution are said to be thriving in a “welcoming” and “nurturing” environment where they feel “valued” by staff. Days are packed with an “ambitious” curriculum, where each year group is encouraged to choose challenging books and develop an advanced vocabulary.
Staff were noted as ‘expertly’ teaching phonics in particular, skilfully helping youngsters recognise sounds as they move from nursery to Reception Year. Support is also offered ‘quickly’ to any pupil thought to be falling behind.
As a result, the young people are highly motivated to learn and show a “focused attitude” towards their work, with classrooms seen to be ‘calm’ and ‘purposeful’. This is reflected in the end-of-year outcomes as the 2024 Year 6 group received “phenomenally high” scores in in reading, writing and mathematics.
Ofsted inspectors found this was particularly impressive as the cohort had well above average levels of disadvantage. This is helped in part by the quality of support given, especially that given to young people with additional needs.
The published reports reads: “Relationships between staff, pupils and their families are positive and respectful. Pupils are confident that, if they have a worry or a concern teachers will listen and help them.
“Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are swiftly identified. The school works alongside external professionals who provide the school with guidance so that these pupils access the curriculum successfully.
“Teachers are knowledgeable of pupils’ needs. Therefore, teaching approaches are appropriate and effective. Consequently, pupils with SEND achieve highly.”
Whilst educational development is a priority, the East London school also places emphasis on interpersonal skills through a variety of extra-curricular activities. Older pupils are appointed as ‘peer mediators’ and ‘lunchtime helpers’ to provide help for younger children, whilst all year groups enjoy visits to art galleries, forests and places of worship.
“Resilience” and “independence” is built up via residential stays both in the UK and abroad, as well as opportunities to become a school leader for the day. A highlight for many in the school year is a trip to Cambridge University to learn about the different courses on offer.
This is the first Ofsted visit to Southwold Primary School since it was last deemed ‘outstanding’ in October 2019. Since September 2024, reports no longer provide an overall grade but determine whether a school is maintaining standards.
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