Holly Hill Methodist CofE Infant School

Overview

Holly Hill Methodist CofE Infant School continues to be a good school, characterised by a culture where "care, nurture and love are at the heart of everything that happens." Leaders maintain high expectations for every child, ensuring that pupils, including those with significant barriers to learning, "learn very well and flourish" in a calm and orderly environment.

Strengths

• The curriculum is "ambitious and broad," with a particularly strong mastery approach in mathematics that helps pupils articulate reasoning and problem-solving skills.
• Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are "exceptionally well supported" through targeted interventions and the bespoke ‘Blossom Room’, allowing them to overcome learning barriers.
• Reading is a high priority, with "highly effective teaching of phonics" ensuring pupils become fluent readers who enjoy daily story time.
• Behaviour is excellent; pupils are "polite, friendly and welcoming," and leaders deal swiftly with issues such as bullying, fostering a sense of safety and kindness.
• Staff relationships are positive, with leaders being "always considerate of their workload and well-being," creating a proud and supportive staff community.

Areas to improve

• In a "very small number of foundation subjects," the precise learning and skills are less clearly identified than in core subjects, meaning pupils’ learning can "lack depth." Leaders should ensure staff are clear about the specific knowledge and skills required so pupils can build learning cumulatively.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with staff highly trained to spot risks and strong relationships with families used to support both the child and the whole family.