Princess Frederica School’s unique curriculum is given the thumbs up by Ofsted inspectors

A Kensal Rise primary school which teaches French from reception age and holds sleepovers has been praised for its ‘outstanding cultural development’ of its pupils.

Ofsted inspectors have given Princess Frederica School in College Road, top marks for its unique curriculum which also includes lessons in African drumming, steel pans and British Sign Language.

The education watchdog graded Princess Frederica as ‘good’ in all areas with some outstanding features.

It also noted that pupils also make good progress in more traditional subjects such as English and maths.

Sabina Nettey, headteacher, said: “Since I took over the headship in 2002 we have worked really hard to move the school forward.

“Our school is at the heart of our community. We are supported generously by our committed Parent and Staff Association.

“We also have strong partnerships with Elders Voice, a Brent Charity which provides practical, emotional and social opportunities to people over 55 and our two local churches St Marks and St Martins.”

Pupils start studying French in their first year at the school, in reception class, and continue to year six, where they spend a residential week in France before taking the OCR (Oxford Cambridge and RSA Examinations) Breakthrough in French exam.

Tim Wilson, deputy headteacher, said: “We do have a very rich and varied curriculum.

“We think it is important to grow the whole child and inspire them to do their best. We have high expectations for everyone in maths and English but we also want pupils to be rounded individuals who also excel at sports and arts.

“We were pleased that the Ofsted report recognised that there are lots of things we do exceptionally well and that all pupils - regardless of the background - make good progress at our school.”