Top rating for Naima

THE TECHNOLOGICAL prowess of Naima JPS pupils helped the independent Sephardi primary school to earn an enthusiastic report from inspectors.

Although the Independent Schools Inspectorate, unlike Ofsted, does not award schools an overall grade, Naima received the top rating of excellent for both the achievements and development of pupils.

The 201 boys and girls made “rapid progress” in their education from the start, including those with special educational needs or with English as an additional language.

Noting the excellent application of information and communication technology skills, the inspectors were particularly impressed by the coding ability of some younger pupils and their explanation of the use of algorithms in computer games. While 28 SEN pupils received additional support, the ablest pupils benefited from specialised programmes to extend their learning.

Beyond their academic achievements, ISI found children had “excellent appreciation of non-material aspects” of their school.

The daily reading of Jewish texts improved their concentration, while the values they learned from Jewish studies, such as honouring parents, strengthened links between school and home.

The “hessed tie”, given to those for numerous acts of kindness, was worn with “great pride,” ISI reported.

Links with a school in Ghana also indicated children’s awareness of diversity in the outside world.

From an early age, children collaborated harmoniously and were mature and articulate, “sharing and presenting ideas thoughtfully”.

Bill Pratt, headmaster of the school for the past 10 years, said, “Everyone worked tremendously hard and we are delighted with the judgments.

“The inspectors loved our children, saw many lessons and were clearly impressed with what has been achieved.”

The inspectors loved our children’