Brookland Infant and Nursery School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is an outstanding school.

Pupils achieve extremely well right across the school. Standards in reading, writing and mathematics have been consistently high by the end of Year 2 for several years. Pupils from different groups, including those supported by the pupil premium grant, those learning to speak English as an additional language and the most able, all do exceptionally well due to school leaders attention to detail.

The highly skilled intervention of adults in the Early Years Foundation Stage enables children to learn new skills quickly or to practise those they have not quite mastered in a variety of interesting ways. Children in the Nursery, some o...f whom experienced their first day at school while the inspection was taking place, are delighted by the exciting activities set out for them. The fun continues in Reception where children show great interest and pride in their work.

Outstanding teaching in Years 1 and 2 results from an extremely thorough knowledge of each pupil's progress and attainment. Teachers use this knowledge exceptionally well to intervene in lessons if pupils are stuck or need a further challenge. Pupils' behaviour is exemplary; they naturally offer to help one another and know exactly what is or is not acceptable.

They are always encouraged to explain the consequences of any over exuberance that develops through their boundless excitement and anticipation. School leaders check how well pupils are doing diligently and make excellent use of this information to pinpoint any issues before they escalate. There is a strong sense of ambition, for staff as well as pupils; underpinned by high quality professional development opportunities to ensure teaching continues to improve.

The governing body is well organised and efficient, keeping a very close eye on financial matters and requiring school leaders to answer incisive questions about pupils' achievement. The strong partnership between governors and school leaders has meant that a concerted campaign to raise attendance has been highly successful, resulting in attendance being well above average. The very large majority of parents express high levels of satisfaction with the school, because : their children feel safe, learn and enjoy coming to school every day.

Information about this school

The school is larger than most schools. The proportion of pupils known to be eligible for the pupil premium is well below average. The pupil premium provides additional funding for looked after children, pupils known to be eligible for free school meals and pupils who have a parent or carer in the armed services.

The proportion of pupils who are of minority ethnic heritage is well above average; more than half the pupils speak English as an additional language. Many speak two or more languages fluently; around 7% of pupils are at an early stage of learning English as an additional language. More than thirty languages are spoken.

The proportion of disabled pupils and those who have special educational needs supported through school action, through school action plus or with a statement of special educational needs is lower than average. This group mainly has autistic spectrum disorder, physical disabilities, speech and language or communication needs, severe learning difficulties, or behavioural, emotional and social difficulties. A new headteacher was appointed from September 2013.

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