Waltham Forest primary referral unit praised for outstanding learning, teaching and leadership

Headteacher Jeanette Maynard said staff have "worked tirelessly" over the last three years to boost the previous 'good' rating at Hawkswood Primary Pupil Referral Unit (PRU) in Antlers Hill, Chingford. 

The unit serves all primary schools in Waltham Forest, offering short-term intervention for children aged 4 to 11 who are struggling to cope in mainstream school and who are at risk of exclusion. 

It also provides longer term, high quality education for pupils aged 7 to 11 who have special educational needs or more severe social, emotional or health issues. 

Over the two-day inspection last month, inspector Melvyn Blackband found all pupils, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds made "outstanding progress".  

Almost all pupils successfully returned to mainstream school after a short period because their behaviour had significantly improved and attainment levels were in line with mainstream education.

Mr Blackband said the management of behaviour is a "real strength" of the school in terms of behaviour improvement, self-confidence and restoring pupils' positive attitudes to learning. 

He found pupils make "excellent progress" in all subjects, particularly reading, writing and maths as a result of "outstanding teaching", and pupils are well-prepared to return to primary school. 

Attendance is much higher than normally found in similar schools with the majority of pupils made up of boys from white and black Caribbean backgrounds. 

The report said: "The subjects pupils study have a very positive impact on their academic progress and behaviour and contribute very well to their physical well-being and their spiritual, moral, social and cultural development.

"The behaviour of pupils is outstanding. 

"This is a very significant improvement in most cases from their conduct before they joined the unit. 

"Pupils’ behaviour around the unit, for instance in the dining room, is exemplary. 

"The unit is a happy and harmonious place of learning."

Since 2012, there has been a consistent decrease in unacceptable behaviour at the unit and no pupil exclusions. 

Headteacher of five years and former deputy head for three years, Mrs Maynard, said: "I think the report it is a true and fair reflection of the hard work and dedication of all the staff and the Hawkswood community.

"We work really hard to teach them to take responsibility for their actions. 

"We aim to build up their self-esteem and confidence so they can aspire to do better.

"Every child that comes through these doors leaves knowing they can do better at school and in life. 

"All of my dedicated staff work tirelessly to achieve a positive outcome for these pupils and all have high aspirations for them.