Following a visit to the school earlier in the term – its first since 2018 – Ofsted Inspectors were left impressed by the “nurturing environment” and the “high expectations” created by leaders and staff.
Pupils at Walthamstow Primary were said to be “rightly proud of their school”. The report describes them as “enthusiastic, respectful and ambitious” learners who “achieve well across a range of subjects”. Behaviour across the school was praised, with Inspectors saying that routines are firmly established in early years and continue throughout the school.
Among the school’s strengths was said to be the strong emphasis on the teaching of reading. Ofsted’s report makes clear that the school has an “ambitious approach to early reading” which sees children begin their learning from the start of Reception because “leaders want every pupil to read fluently and confidently”.
This “ambitious” approach to the curriculum was also echoed in comments about teaching and learning more broadly, supported by a “calm and purposeful” environment and staff members’ “secure subject knowledge”. Leaders’ high expectations for achievement was said to extend to pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), with adaptations made to the curriculum where necessary so that all pupils can work together and access the same curriculum.
In addition, Inspectors praised the “excellent relationships” staff have created with children at the school – ensuring it is a place where pupils “feel happy and are kept safe”. Equally, staff were said to feel “overwhelmingly positive” about working at the school.
In addition to the work of staff and leaders, Ofsted noted the effective support provided to the school by United Learning, the national schools group which Walthamstow Primary Academy is part of. This was said to be focused on ensuring “the very best education for all pupils”.
James Hucknall, Principal at Walthamstow Primary Academy, said:
“We are very pleased Ofsted has confirmed our school continues to be ‘Good’ and recognised what an aspirational, nurturing environment we have worked to create for pupils.
“This outcome really is testament to the wonderful group of pupils and staff here at Walthamstow Primary Academy and to the energy and enthusiasm they bring to school each day.
“I know everyone will take great pride in the Inspectors’ feedback and that it will continue to drive our efforts to support every pupil to be the best they can be.”
Darran Ellison-Lee, Director of Primary Education at United Learning, said of the report:
“I am very pleased that Inspectors have confirmed that Walthamstow Primary Academy continues to be a ‘Good’ school and found much to praise during their visit. This outcome is testament to the firm foundations that the school has built under the leadership of Mr James Hucknall and his team and is a very positive signal for its ongoing success.”