Houldsworth Valley Primary Academy is a highly inclusive and innovative school, that takes every opportunity to implement new strategies to improve the holistic learning experiences of their pupils. Their Ofsted report noted that “The school works tirelessly, and with real impact, to ensure that every pupil succeeds academically and personally”, and this sentiment is shared universally across the Houldsworth Valley community. Staff show exceptional knowledge of policies and practices, with the positive and open attitudes of their pupils a testament to the hard work and dedication shown across the school.
The Senior Leadership Team ensure a fantastic learning experience meets the needs and demands of all learners. The team have high expectations for all learners, and through consistent encouragement and instilling a sense of belonging, pupils feel empowered to put everything into their learning. Approachability is important for senior staff, all the way up to the Executive Headteacher, who shows a strong awareness of staff wellbeing needs. This commitment to openness has led to a high calibre of teaching and support staff, who can avail of relevant CPD opportunities to develop areas of expertise and meet student demand. Teachers are aware of key areas of need, such as oracy and maths, and build their offer from evidence-based practice, allowing pupils to try a range of approaches to learning. The school works closely with The Apex, an onsite hub to help pupils with communication and interaction needs. This commitment to addressing need is seen in exit data, showing significant improvement over the years and subsequently the best set of results the school has ever achieved. Support staff play a crucial role in school life. They understand the purpose behind their day-to-day duties and are encouraged by the SLT to give their opinions on progress and strategies. Indeed, it is collaboration between staff that aids inclusive practice, and creates an inclusive and open environment for staff, too. The Behaviour Lead collaborates with teachers daily and works with everyone in a solution-focused way to meet the needs of all pupils effectively. On top of this, the Behaviour Lead works across three schools, so is exposed to a variety of scenarios and can apply this experience across all the schools they work in.
Students are enthusiastic about life at school, both academically and socially. The curriculum is design to be motivating and engaging. Staff have worked to make the content relevant to all learners, with a Wellness curriculum on offer for those children who would benefit from a more holistic approach. The school work hard to instill a good work ethic so that pupils are prepared for the next steps on their educational journey. Apex pupils are made to feel part of the whole school community, socialising with peers at break and lunch, as well as attending all assemblies and school visits. No pupils at Houldsworth Valley are made to feel different or separate from other children – everyone is included and championed. Technology is utilised effectively so children can make progress in all lessons, irrespective of social background. Staff receive thorough training to ensure they are familiar with accessibility features for iPad learning and know how to AirDrop examples to pupils who are stuck on an activity. Students are empowered to use the skills developed academically to form themselves as young individuals. The school holds Gold standard as a Rights Respecting School, and children can articulate how this translates into a culture of good behaviour, respect, and the ability to recite articles that are linked to the curriculum. Attendance at the school is well above average, with the positive impacts of morning meet-and-greets with parents being seen in this enthusiasm to come to school and learn. Students are encouraged to have high attendance on their pupil passport, where they can avail of a reward from the Rewards emporium – preparing them for the real world where hard work and dedication is rewarded.
Extra-curricular learning is a real source of pride for pupils, and staff go to lengths to ensure it is fully inclusive for all learners. Pupils enjoy Tuesday clubs, where they can attend sessions run by teachers linked to their area of personal interest or expertise. These clubs are mixed-age sessions, so pupils from all years and backgrounds can make new friendships. Educational visits are also a highlight, including trips to the Newmarket stud and Horseracing Museum, and a visit to the Anglo-Saxon village and museum. Pupils are encouraged to capture special moments on these trips so they can reflect on them afterwards; staff create photo books that allow children to remember exciting experiences in their education.
The commitment to inclusion is seen in every aspect of life at Houldsworth Valley Primary Academy. Every pupil, regardless of background or need, is able to participate in a vibrant and welcoming educational community. With staff working together consistently to provide an exceptional education, children can confidently come to school each day knowing that they have the very best opportunities available, helping them become well-rounded, happy learners for the future.