Latest News
Keep up to date with all the latest news happening in school at the moment.
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Celebrating Excellence in Early Years Maths at Mount Stewart
Mon 11 May 2026Celebrating Excellence in Early Years Maths at Mount Stewart
We are incredibly proud to celebrate our Nursery Teacher, Jacqueline Keane, whose recently published blog, “From Laminated Leaves to Meaningful Maths: My Journey as a Maths Champion,” was featured by A Brighter Start: East London’s Early Years Stronger Practice Hub. The article highlights the importance of meaningful mathematical experiences in the early years and reflects the outstanding practice taking place across our federation. (strongerpracticehubs.org.uk)
The blog explores a powerful shift in thinking — moving away from “forcing maths” through isolated activities and instead recognising mathematics naturally within children’s play, exploration and everyday experiences. (strongerpracticehubs.org.uk) This approach strongly reflects our vision for Early Years at Mount Stewart, where children develop curiosity, confidence and deep understanding through high-quality interactions and purposeful learning opportunities.
Our Early Years provision is a real strength of the federation. Staff create language-rich, nurturing and highly engaging environments where children thrive academically, socially and emotionally. Through carefully planned provision and skilled adult interactions, children are encouraged to investigate, reason, problem-solve and communicate their thinking from the very beginning of their learning journey.
Mathematics is embedded throughout our curriculum and daily practice. In Nursery and Reception, children experience maths through practical exploration, storytelling, outdoor learning, construction, creative play and real-life problem solving. Adults expertly model mathematical vocabulary and encourage children to notice patterns, compare quantities, estimate, count and reason independently.
This excellent foundation continues throughout the school. Across Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2, pupils build strong mathematical fluency, reasoning and problem-solving skills through a carefully sequenced curriculum and high expectations for all learners. Our use of high-quality approaches, including White Rose Maths and Third Space Learning, ensures children develop confidence and depth in mathematics. As a result, outcomes across the school continue to be exceptionally strong and significantly above national averages.
We are particularly proud that our work in Early Years is being recognised beyond the school community. The publication of this blog demonstrates the expertise, passion and reflective practice of our staff and highlights Mount Stewart’s commitment to excellence, innovation and continuous improvement.
Congratulations to our Nursery team for this fantastic achievement and for continuing to inspire meaningful mathematical thinking in our youngest learners every day.
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Celebrating Our Young Champions
Mon 27 Apr 2026Well done to a group of inspiring young Mount Stewart athletes who took part in the TCS London Mini Marathon.
Their energy, determination and enthusiasm shone brightly as they tackled the course with smiles on their faces! It was incredible to see such passion and hard work from our children.
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Harrow primary school supports pupil raising awareness for epilepsy
Tue 08 Jul 2025 -
Head Students Review the Reception Nativity Play
Fri 20 Dec 2024Reception Nativity
Introduction
This year’s Reception Nativity was nothing short of magical. As the children took to the stage, their faces glowing with excitement and nerves, the audience was treated to a performance brimming with joy, laughter, and unforgettable moments. It was a celebration
showcasing how these children have grown and excelled in their journey, leaving everyone with a smile on their face.
The children’s participation in the nativity was truly remarkable, with each one of them stepping into their role with a sense of pride and enthusiasm. Their confidence grew as they took the stage, and it was evident the way they expressed themselves, whether delivering
their lines, singing or acting. It was inspiring to see these young performers embrace their spotlight, showcasing their personalities with such confidence and warmth.
The success of this outstanding performance was also the hard work and dedication of the children, who put in countless hours rehearsing and perfecting their roles. Their enthusiasm
was matched by the inspiring commitment of the staff, who guided the children every step of the way. Without the staff’s unwavering support and tireless dedication, this tremendous play would not have been possible. Their passion for nurturing these young talent’s shone through, helping create a memorable and heartwarming experience for everyone involved.
To truly capture the magic of this year’s Reception Nativity, we sought the opinions of parents, teachers, children and head students, all of whom shared their thoughts on the
unforgettable experience.
What The Head Students Thought
As head students, we were truly impressed by the performance of the Receptions in the Christmas play. Although many of them were nervous at the start, they showed remarkable courage and did an exceptional job. The amount of effort they put into their rehearsals was clear, and their ability to express their characters with confidence was fantastic.
The students sang with great character, and their voices were full of expression, bringing the holiday spirit to life. It was wonderful to see them overcome their nerves and perform so beautifully, delivering their lines clearly and with such enthusiasm.
It was clear that all their hard work paid off. We were delighted to see them shine, and it was a privilege to be part of such a special and successful event. The play not only highlighted their talents but also their growth and confidence.
What The Teacher's Thought
The teachers were thoroughly impressed by the performance of the Reception class in the Christmas play. They were amazed by how well the children performed, surpassing their expectations in every way. The students delivered their lines with clarity and confidence, projecting their voices loudly and clearly, which made their performances even more impactful. The children’s smiling faces and enthusiastic presence on stage reflected their growing self-assurance. Overall, the teachers were blown away by how the children not only overcame their nerves but also excelled in their roles, showcasing a level of confidence and maturity that was beyond what they had anticipated.
Parent Feedback:
Parents were incredibly proud and impressed by how much their children have progressed in speech and confidence. They were blown away by the clarity and enthusiasm each child displayed on stage. It was heartwarming to see every student participate so fully, overcoming any nerves. The play truly showcased their growth and dedication. Overall, it was a memorable and joyous experience for all involved.
What The Children Thought:
The children were really proud of their performance in the Reception Nativity play. They loved being part of it and enjoyed the fun atmosphere. It felt exciting to see everyone come together and shine on stage. Overall, it was a wonderful experience they won’t forget, and they can’t wait to do it again next year.
Overview:
The Reception’s Nativity play was a delightful mix of festive songs and storytelling. It followed a traditional retelling of the Nativity which complemented the storytelling beautifully. The play opened with a cheerful song that immediately set a festive tone. Throughout the performance, the children sang a range of songs, some of which were very traditional and well-known and others that seemed more modern or playful. The enthusiasm and effort they put into their singing were evident, and it was clear they worked with great dedication and commitment to put on an outstanding performance
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Mount Stewart Infant School Celebrates Exceptional Ofsted Report.
Wed 25 Sep 2024Mount Stewart Infant School is delighted to announce the outstanding feedback received in its recent Ofsted inspection. The school, which has long been a cornerstone of the Kenton community, was praised for its high ambition, exceptional curriculum, and the warm, supportive environment it provides for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
The Ofsted report highlights several key areas of success:
- High Ambition: The inspection team commended the school for the high ambition demonstrated by all staff, ensuring that every child receives a broad and engaging curriculum tailored to their needs.
- Pupil Engagement: Inspectors noted that pupils are happy, well-behaved, and enthusiastic about learning, reflecting the positive and nurturing atmosphere that Mount Stewart is known for.
- Focus on Reading: The school’s strong emphasis on reading was particularly praised, with a well-structured phonics program that helps pupils quickly become fluent readers.
- Consistent Curriculum Delivery: The curriculum at Mount Stewart not only meets but often exceeds national expectations, ensuring that pupils develop a deep understanding of the subjects they study.
- Staff Support: The report also recognised the positive environment for staff, highlighting the strong support system in place that enables teachers to maintain the high standards expected at Mount Stewart.
- Safeguarding Excellence: The effectiveness of the school’s safeguarding practices was strongly commended, demonstrating the school's unwavering commitment to pupil safety.
The report suggests that if this had been a graded inspection, the school might have been rated as 'Outstanding,' a testament to the exceptional standards maintained by the school community. As a result, Ofsted will be returning for a graded inspection in the near future.
Sally Newing, Headteacher of Mount Stewart Federation, expressed her pride in the school’s achievements: “We are thrilled with the recognition from Ofsted. This report is a true reflection of the dedication, hard work, and commitment of our staff, pupils, and parents. We are proud to be part of a community that prioritises excellence in education, and we are excited to continue building on this success.”
The governing body also expressed their satisfaction with the results of the inspection…As Co-Chair of Governors, Darren Phillimore-Farden & Kishan Parshotam stated, ‘ it is an absolute privilege to work alongside such a dedicated and passionate team at Mount Stewart Schools Federation. The glowing Ofsted report is a testament to the hard work and unwavering commitment of our staff, pupils, and the wider school community. We are incredibly proud of the high ambition, inclusive environment, and exceptional support that makes Mount Stewart Federation such an outstanding place for every child to thrive. This achievement reflects the strength of our teamwork and shared vision for excellence.’
About Mount Stewart Infant School:
Mount Stewart Infant School is part of The Mount Stewart Schools Federation, which comprises Mount Stewart Infant School and Junior School. It is a vibrant and inclusive school located in Kenton, Harrow, serving children aged 2 to 7. With a strong commitment to academic excellence and a nurturing environment, the school provides a broad and balanced curriculum that inspires pupils to achieve their full potential.
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Mount Stewart Early Years Team Celebrates Bronze in National Pearson Teaching Awards
Wed 19 Jun 2024Mount Stewart Early Years Team Celebrates Bronze in National Pearson Teaching Awards
Mount Stewart Early Years Team Shines on National Stage
Mount Stewart Early Years Team, led by the dedicated and passionate Charlotte Carey, EYFS Assistant Headteacher, has achieved a remarkable milestone by winning the Bronze award in the prestigious Pearson National Teaching Awards 2024. This honor places them among the top early years settings across the country, showcasing their exceptional commitment to providing outstanding early childhood education.
The Pearson National Teaching Awards are renowned for recognising excellence in teaching and learning and celebrating educators' innovative and impactful work nationwide. Securing Bronze in such a competitive field is a testament to the hard work, creativity, and dedication of the entire Mount Stewart Early Years Team.
Charlotte Carey, a driving force behind the team's success, expressed her pride and joy: "This award reflects our team's collective effort and passion. We strive to create a nurturing and stimulating environment for our children, and this recognition motivates us to continue pushing the boundaries of excellence in early years education."
The Mount Stewart Early Years Team's achievement is a win for the school and a celebration for the entire community. Parents and guardians have played a crucial role in supporting the team's endeavours, and their trust and collaboration have been vital in reaching this milestone.
The award highlights the innovative approaches and child-centered practices that Mount Stewart has implemented, ensuring that every child receives the best possible start in their educational journey. The team's commitment to fostering a love for learning, creativity, and social development in their students has been exemplary.
Looking ahead, the team is not content with just Bronze. "We are incredibly proud of this achievement, but our journey doesn't end here," said Charlotte Carey. "We will be aiming for Gold next year, and we are excited about the opportunities to further enhance our educational practices and continue making a positive impact on our children's lives."
The Mount Stewart Early Years Team's success is an inspiration for other educational settings demonstrating that with dedication, innovation, and a strong sense of community, exceptional achievements are possible.
Congratulations to the Mount Stewart Early Years Team for their Bronze award in the Pearson National Teaching Awards 2024. Here's to aiming even higher and continuing to set new standards of excellence in early years education.
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Mrs Newing Triumphs in The London Marathon
Fri 26 Apr 2024Mrs Newing Triumphs in The London Marathon
In a remarkable display of resilience and hard work, Mrs Newing our Headteacher conquered the iconic London Marathon and she crossed the finish line in a commendable time of 5 hours 10 minutes.
Mrs Newing's participation in The London Marathon was not merely about running a race, it was a platform to raise funds and awareness for Children with Cancer UK, a cause that resonates deeply with her and our school community.
Our Headteacher's dedication and perseverance paid off and so far, she has raised an impressive £2,494 for Children with Cancer UK. Her fundraising efforts did not stop with her own participation in the marathon. Inspired by her dedication, pupils from Year 4 and Year 5 enthusiastically raised funds with their Enterprise Stalls. These young champions contributed their funds to this great cause.
Mrs Newing's marathon journey serves as an inspiration to us all, reminding us of the transformative power of perseverance, generosity and empathy. May her example continue to motivate us to reach beyond ourselves and to make a meaningful difference in the world around us.
Well done Mrs Newing on this remarkable achievement and also to the generosity of our Enterprise Stall Champions.
We would like to extend a massive thank you to all the children and parents who donated and supported these initiatives. Your generosity has played a crucial role in this endeavour. Remember, there is still time to contribute, and every little bit helps to make a difference. You can donate here:
https://2024tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/sally-newing-8a44a
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Mount Stewart Early Years Team Achieves National Recognition
Mon 22 Apr 2024Mount Stewart Early Years Team Achieves National Recognition
In an exciting development for our Mount Stewart community, the dedicated Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) team has been shortlisted for the prestigious Pearson's EYFS Team Awards. This recognition places our team among the top finalists in the "Early Years Team of the Year" category, an honor that highlights their exceptional commitment to nurturing the developmental needs of our youngest learners.
The Pearson's EYFS Team Awards are designed to celebrate outstanding contributions in early childhood education across the country. Being selected as a finalist not only underscores the quality of our local EYFS programme but also shines a spotlight on the innovative teaching methods and compassionate care provided by our early year's team.
The journey to this point has been filled with dedication and hard work, and the nomination itself serves as a significant accolade. As we prepare for the next exciting phase of the competition, we eagerly anticipate the visit from Pearson’s judges. This will be a wonderful opportunity for the team to showcase the enriching environment they have cultivated for our early learners.
Our community is incredibly proud of the EYFS team’s achievement. Their passion and professionalism are an example of excellence in early childhood education, and we are all rooting for their success in the final stages of the awards.
Stay tuned for updates as we continue to support our EYFS team on their remarkable journey in the Pearson's EYFS Team Awards.
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Infant Challenge Partners QAR Report 2024
Mon 26 Feb 2024I am sharing some wonderful news about our infant school's recent participation in the Challenge Partners review. This rigorous evaluation process has provided invaluable feedback on our educational practices, particularly focusing on Physical Education (PE), Phonics, and the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). With immense pride, I report on the outstanding outcomes we have achieved.
Firstly, I am pleased to announce that our EYFS Area of Excellence was validated during this review. This achievement directly reflects our dedicated staff's commitment, hard work, and innovative approach to early education. Their efforts to create a nurturing and stimulating learning environment for our youngest learners have been acknowledged and celebrated.
The review's overall Peer Evaluation has recognised our federation as Leading in all examined areas. This includes Leadership at all levels, the Quality of Provision and Outcomes, and specifically, the Quality of Provision and Outcomes for Disadvantaged Pupils and Pupils with Additional Needs. Achieving a rating of Leading across these critical areas is a testament to our inclusive ethos and our determination to provide exceptional educational experiences for all children.
Challenge Review Evaluation
Leadership at all levels - Leading
Quality of provisions and outcomes- Leading
Area of Excellence- Accredited
Excelling in the Early Years: Innovating EYFS education at Mount Stewart
Overall peer evaluation estimate -Leading
This recognition from Challenge Partners is a significant accolade for our federation. It highlights the effectiveness of our curriculum and the excellence of our teaching practices and underscores our collective commitment to continuous improvement and innovation in education. We are motivated more than ever to continue our pursuit of excellence, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of educational development and maintain our reputation as a leading federation where every child can thrive.
I want to take this opportunity to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our incredible staff for their unwavering dedication and hard work. I also want to thank our students for their enthusiasm and eagerness to learn, and of course, you, our parents, for your ongoing support and commitment to our community. Together, we have created a vibrant and inclusive environment that fosters learning and development for every child.
As we celebrate this remarkable achievement, we look forward to building upon this success. We are excited to enhance our educational offerings further and continue providing an environment where every child can succeed and flourish. I encourage you to read the report attached.
Thank you for being an integral part of our journey. Your support and engagement are crucial to our success, and we are eager to continue this journey together, achieving even greater heights in the future.
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Exciting New Developments at Mount Stewart: A New Playground for Reception!
Wed 21 Feb 2024Exciting New Developments at Mount Stewart: A New Playground for Reception!
Mount Stewart is thrilled to announce an exciting new development that promises to bring smiles and joy to our youngest learners and the entire school community. In our continuous effort to enhance the educational experience for our children, we have partnered with Pentagon Play, leaders in creating dynamic and educational play spaces, to design and construct a brand-new playground specifically for our Reception class.
A Space Designed for Learning and Growth
Set to commence the week of March 25th, with completion aimed over the Easter holidays; this project is a testament to our commitment to providing a holistic and enriching learning environment for our students. The new playground area has been thoughtfully designed to challenge our children, offering them more space for child-led play and exploration. Carefully planned areas will link directly to the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum, supporting our children in achieving their developmental milestones.
The new playground will feature a range of equipment and zones tailored to nurture physical, intellectual, and social skills, ensuring that our children can learn and grow in a fun, safe, and stimulating environment. From climbing structures that encourage physical development to imaginative play areas that foster creativity and social skills, this playground will have something to engage every child.
A Unique Opportunity for Our Children
An exciting aspect of this project is the opportunity for our children to witness the transformation of their play area. This real-world observation will be a source of excitement and offer educational value, giving them insight into project development and the importance of safety and planning in construction.
Community Involvement and Updates
Recognising the importance of community involvement, we invite parents and the wider Mount Stewart community to engage with this project. While the outdoor area will be temporarily closed during the construction phase, we will ensure to keep you updated on progress and provide alternative arrangements for drop-off and collection as needed.
To give everyone a glimpse of what's to come, we have prepared a special presentation accessible through a QR code provided in our communications. We encourage parents to view this with their children, sparking conversations about the new play area and the adventures that await.
A Bright Future Ahead
This project marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to create an enriching, inclusive, and dynamic learning environment for all our students. We believe that the new Reception playground will enhance our children's daily experiences and serve as a symbol of our vibrant, forward-thinking community.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Mount Stewart community for your continued support and enthusiasm. Together, we are laying the groundwork for a future where our children can thrive, learn, and play in ways that will shape them into confident, curious, and compassionate individuals.
Stay tuned for more updates, and here's to a bright and joyful future at Mount Stewart!
