Hungerford Primary School and Children’s Centre in Islington has been praised by Ofsted as a ‘good school, where pupils achieve well and make a good start to their education.’
In its recent inspection, Ofsted found that ‘teaching and learning in the school is good’ which means that pupils progress well during their time there and are prepared for the next stage in their education.
Pupils at Hungerford behave well, largely due to the fact that they ‘are happy and confident, and enjoy coming to school.’ Inspectors noted that pupils ‘work and play well together, no matter what their background, faith or ethnic groups.’
Headteacher of Hungerford Primary, Brian Bench, was commended for the way that he and his senior team have led the school during a period of great change as the children’s centre was incorporated and special school The Bridge was also moved onto the site. Brian said:
“I am delighted with the comments made by Ofsted. My team have worked hard for this result which I believe is truly justified and the staff and pupils thoroughly deserve the acclaim.
“We were particularly proud and overwhelmed by the support from the local community. Banners were displayed supporting the campus from the housing association next door and shops displayed good luck messages. I have never heard of a community supporting its local school to this extent and it’s not surprising that we were deemed outstanding with regard to our links with our community. One of my staff put it well when he said, ‘it’s like being given a big hug.’ We sincerely thank our community for their support.”
Pupils at Hungerford enthusiastically take on extra curricular activities including sports, music and trips in and outside of London. They are happy to take responsibility for projects, such as being members of the school council or playground buddies. They also often raise money for a number of charities, contribute to local events and correspond with their link school in Africa.
Children at the school have a good understanding of how to lead a healthy lifestyle and Hungerford has been awarded the Healthy School Award.
Director of Children's Services at Islington Council, Eleanor Schooling, said:
“Congratulations to all the staff, pupils and Governors at Hungerford. The school has worked very hard to maintain a high level of care and education for pupils through a period of some change and I’m pleased that this has been recognised by Ofsted.”
The ‘outstanding partnership with parents’ that Hungerford has developed plays an important role in the success of the school and children’s centre. When Ofsted inspectors spoke to parents, they were eager to praise, with one describing the staff at the school as 'fantastic and caring' and another saying 'I have only positive comments to make regarding the centre.'
ENDS.
Page Last Updated: 12 June 2009