Joy for outstanding Yavneh Primary
THE SCHOOL year has ended on a triumphant note for Yavneh Primary in Borehamwood after it was rated outstanding in all areas in its first inspections by both Ofsted and the Board of Deputies’ Jewish inspection service, Pikuach.
Opened just three years ago, it has emulated the feat of its outstanding sibling Yavneh College, which is based on the same site.
Thrilled Yavneh headteacher Caroline Field said it was “a tremendous achievement to achieve such a high standard in a relatively short space of time”.
Spencer Lewis, the executive head of the Yavneh schools, said the primary’s outstanding grade was “a true and accurate reflection” of the excellence “we see every single day and of which we are extremely proud”.
Ofsted said pupils made “exceptionally strong” progress, with a large percentage achieving the higher standard in reading, writing, maths and science at the end of key stage one.
Teaching quality was excellent in all subjects with science and music a particular strength.
Extra coaching for pupils with additional needs ensured that “all children get off to a flying start” at the school.
Inspectors reported there had been no incidents of bullying since the school had opened.
Secondary students from the college were seen as “clear role models” by the primary pupils and helped with sports and Hebrew reading.
So highly regarded was the school that 99 per cent of parents who responded to Ofsted said they would recommend it.
Pikuach was equally enthusiastic about the school’s Jewish studies, praising the “inspirational and relentlessly ambitious” leadership team, led by Kodesh head Liza Taitz.
One of the strengths was flexibility, enabling eachers to adapt lessons to the needs and interests of pupils.
Year-two students would complete the year with strong levels of religious knowledge and literacy, Pikuach said.
The school offered parents sessions on Hebrew reading or more general Jewish topics.
One parent quoted by Pikuach said the school taught their son “in a way that makes him love the subject”.