Marking the school's first visit under Ofsted's new inspection framework, inspectors assessed that the school performed at a 'strong standard' in two of the seven criteria – inclusion and personal development and wellbeing – and at the 'expected standard' in the remaining five criteria.
Overall, the inspectors found that pupils “thrive in this happy, safe and caring school” and “enjoy their lessons and participate enthusiastically in learning”.
The report had strong praise for staff members, as it commended them not only for their high level of expertise and subject knowledge, but also for facilitating “consistently warm and kind” relationships between themselves and pupils. These positive relationships and "expert support" ensure that all pupils, including those who are disadvantaged and with SEND, can access the "ambitious and well-sequenced curriculum" and make the progress that is expected of them.
Alongside the strong academic provision, the inspectors emphasised the breadth of opportunities for pupils to “contribute positively to the school and wider community through leadership roles”, such as sports ambassadors and OPAL rangers. Ofsted was also impressed with how all pupils got the opportunity to “regularly explore their talents and interests through sport, music, outdoor learning, structured games and role play”.
These opportunities were noted as being a part of the school's thoughtful personal development programme, which inspectors found ended with the pupils being “independent, resilient and confident” young people, who are well prepared for their next steps and life in modern Britain.
Hil View is looking forward to welcoming prospective pupils and their families into school during its upcoming Open Days beginning on 14th October, where they will be able to see for themselves the fantastic teaching and learning taking place.
Rebecca Rorich, Head of School at Hill View Primary School, said:
"It is fantastic that Ofsted inspectors recognised all the aspects of the school that we are most proud of in their report, including our welcoming and inclusive nature and our strong academic and character education. I am grateful for our staff and wider community's unwavering dedication and engagement, and I know that we will continue to strive to achieve the very best for our pupils as this new academic year gets underway."
Julie Hiddleston, Director of Primary Education at United Learning, added:
"This outcome highlights the excellent and well-rounded quality of education Hill View is offering to its pupils and reflects the ongoing hard work of staff, as well as the commitment that pupils show to their learning. Congratulations to all members of the school community on this positive and reassuring outcome.
"Whilst it reaffirms much of what we already know about the school, it is pleasing to receive this external recognition and is a strong foundation on which we are confident the school will continue to build over the coming months and years."