Etz Chaim achieves ‘good’ Ofsted rating

Etz Chaim Jewish primary school in Mill Hill has been rated as ‘Good’ across the board, following its most recent Ofsted inspection, carried out in February 2024 and released this week.

The one form entry, single academy trust school was recognised for having “high ambitions for pupils’ achievements”, as being a place where “pupils enjoy coming”, and where parents “commented on the warm, nurturing and supportive atmosphere”.

The report highlighted that staff take the time to get to know pupils as individuals and encourage them to express their opinions and learn to respect differences. Inspectors also found that pupils understand that they live in a diverse society and embrace each other’s different beliefs and values.

Since joining the school in September 2022, headteacher Hannah Martin has implemented an overhaul of the curriculum taught at the school as well as the teaching methods used, moving it from ‘continuous provision’ to ‘whole class teaching’.

Inspectors said: “Recent changes have been made to the curriculum to ensure that it meets the requirements of what is expected nationally. In all subjects, leaders have identified the knowledge they want pupils to learn. This is well sequenced so that pupils return to, and deepen their understanding of, important ideas over time. Staff are fully on board, appreciate these improvements and enjoy working here.”

The report went on to praise the governing body for providing clear direction and “supporting leaders to maintain the momentum of change”.

The report also acknowledged the work leaders have done to continue to focus on promoting positive behaviour, noting that pupils “behave well in lessons and play together happily at break times”.

Mrs Martin said: “I am pleased that the inspectors have recognised the positive impact of the changes we have made over the last 12 to 18 months. It was reassuring to see that the inspectors received comments from parents praising our warm, nurturing and supportive atmosphere. This is not only what makes the school community a joy to be part of, but it is this environment that forms the essence of the school being somewhere that children want to come and learn.”

Governing body co-chairs Sam Shaerf and Lizzie Benett, said: “This rating is testament to all the hard work that has been put in by Mrs Martin, her team and the governing body over the last 18 months. We take great pride in seeing the direction that Etz Chaim is heading, especially when we hear the great things being said about the school from fellow parents and members of the wider local and Jewish community.”