Hillside Primary School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is a good school The headteacher and senior leadership team share high expectations and a clear understanding of what constitutes effective teaching and learning.

They lead with drive and rigour. Their ambition for the school is shared by the staff and governors. Governors are knowledgeable, they are well-informed and have an accurate understanding of the school's development needs.

They have recently reviewed their role and now offer leaders high-quality challenge and support. The provision for all groups of pupils has improved, leading to better overall achievement. Disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND)... are making good progress from their different starting points.

Parents are positive about the school. They recognise its quality of care and the dedication of teachers. The overwhelming majority of parents would recommend this school to others.

Pupils' conduct and behaviour around school is very good. The consistent approach by all staff means that pupils always know what is expected of them throughout the school day. Safeguarding procedures are effective, all staff understand their roles and responsibilities.

The overwhelming majority of pupils feel safe and well cared for while at school. Strong subject leadership in English and mathematics has ensured high-quality teaching, resulting in Year 6 pupils' attainment being consistently higher than the national averages. Pupils value their learning and enjoy coming to school.

However, attendance remains stubbornly below the national average for primary schools. The leadership team continues to work closely with parents and other agencies to address this issue. Planning across the early years is insufficiently focused on progression and next steps for learning, especially in the activities that children choose for themselves.

Consequently, teaching is not strong and children do not make the progress that they are capable of. The school's curriculum is being reviewed. Consistent systems for planning and monitoring are not fully established.

Leaders of subjects other than English and mathematics do not have a full understanding of progress and standards in their subjects.

Information about this school

The school is slightly smaller than the average-sized primary school. The proportion of pupils eligible for the pupil premium is below the national average.

The percentage of pupils with SEND is similar to that found in most primary schools nationally. The proportion who have an education, health and care plan is average. The majority of pupils are White British.

The proportion of pupils from a minority ethnic background is low. The school has specially resourced provision for eight pupils with cognitive and learning needs. These pupils come from local schools and attend school on a part-time, four-days-a-week basis.