OFSTED Outstanding
Published: Mon 10 February 2025
Following a visit in January, OFSTED has confirmed that Galleywall Primary in Bermondsey has maintained the standard from its previous inspection and remains Outstanding.
In a report which described Galleywall as “a school that is making a clear difference to the pupils it serves”, praise was given for pupil engagement, an excellent curriculum, pupils safety and a high standard of delivery.
“Throughout the school day, pupils are polite, courteous, and confident,” it continues, “They take pride in their many responsibilities.”
Galleywall was started as a free school in 2016 by the prestigious City of London Academies Trust. The success of the school is supported by the City of London, with a range of activities and grants including residential trips, maths challenge, chess, dance and debating.
Headteacher Martin Blain said “We are delighted with this outcome. I am so proud of our pupils who rise to the challenge of their learning every day, and also of my colleagues whose professionalism, effort and pride in the school is second to none.”
Blain is proud of the school’s local roots with a curriculum interwoven with local history. “The population of the school reflects the area, with an abundance of languages spoken and the full range of abilities,” he said, “The support of our local community is a strength.” The school is proud that some of its pupils have gained places at City of London and other prestigious selective schools.
“The school wants its pupils to be aspirational – its commitment to providing pupils with the best possible experience permeates the excellent curriculum,” states the report. Galleywall has five values and wants its pupils to be individual, entrepreneurial, compassionate and enlightened, as well as aspirational.