Hayeswood First School

Overview

Hayeswood First School is described as a place where pupils feel safe and happy, underpinned by strong relationships and clear behavioural expectations. Leaders have established a well-sequenced curriculum that supports confident teaching and ensures pupils are prepared for their next stage of learning. The school fosters a positive culture where pupils’ voices are valued and they develop a sense of responsibility through diverse extra-curricular activities.

Strengths

• Pupils are committed to their learning, supported by staff who have received priority training and teach with confidence.
• Early reading is taught effectively, with books matched to sounds and regular assessments providing "bespoke support" for gaps.
• Children in the early years make a "strong start" through thoughtfully planned activities and nursery rhyme performances.
• Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities are well-supported to access the full curriculum alongside their peers.
• Staff feel valued due to a supportive training programme and initiatives promoting health and wellbeing.

Areas to improve

• Assessment in some wider curriculum subjects needs strengthening so staff can identify learning gaps with precision.
• Expectations for presentation in mathematics must be raised to ensure inaccuracies, such as in number formation, are swiftly addressed.

Safeguarding

The report states that "the arrangements for safeguarding are effective."