Haimo Primary School Review 2026: A Community-Centred Primary with Outstanding Personal Development

Haimo Primary School is a two-form entry community primary in Eltham that has earned widespread recognition for its exceptional personal development provision, rated Outstanding by Ofsted. Serving 377 pupils aged 3 to 11 in the London Borough of Greenwich, the school combines strong academic performance with an ethos built on care, respect and community partnership. With 77% of pupils reaching the expected standard in reading, writing and maths—significantly above the national average of 62%—and an average scaled score of 318 across core subjects, Haimo ranks in the middle tier nationally but consistently delivers positive outcomes for its diverse cohort. Led by Headteacher Kathleen Barnes, the school maintains a 18:1 pupil-to-teacher ratio and offers nursery provision for 52 children alongside breakfast and after-school clubs. Most notably, Haimo's commitment to celebrating its multicultural community through events such as cultural sharing days and its unwavering focus on pupil wellbeing create an environment where children are, in the words of inspectors, "extremely happy and safe."

Haimo Primary School positions itself as "a special place which promotes care and respect for each other at all times," and this mission permeates every aspect of school life. The school's educational philosophy centres on providing an exciting, well-structured and stimulating learning environment that develops children into resilient, independent and confident individuals with enquiring minds and a love of learning. Partnership is regarded as a key factor in ensuring success, and the school actively encourages meaningful cooperation between home, school and the wider community.

The atmosphere at Haimo is warm and inclusive. Pupils arrive each morning excited about the day ahead and are greeted by friendly staff who know them and their families well. Children are proud to be part of the school and value both the care they receive from all adults and the positive friendships they have formed with peers. This strong sense of belonging is reinforced by the school's celebration of its diverse community—events such as an "around the world" cultural sharing day, coinciding with Black History Month, invite parents and carers to share their heritage through stories, music, art, language and food. A Halloween Carnival and other community-focused occasions further strengthen the bonds between families and the school.

Staff deal with behaviour consistently and fairly. Bullying and any form of discriminatory behaviour are not tolerated, and such incidents seldom occur. The school's Outstanding rating for personal development reflects its success in nurturing well-rounded children who understand the importance of respect, kindness and shared values.

Haimo Primary School delivers academic performance that sits comfortably above national benchmarks. In the most recent Key Stage 2 results, 77% of pupils achieved the expected standard in reading, writing and maths combined, well ahead of the national average of 62%. The proportion achieving a high standard across all three subjects stood at 25%, more than triple the England average of 8%. The school's combined scaled score of 318 across reading, grammar and maths places it at the 34th percentile nationally and ranks it 41st among Greenwich primaries.

Breaking down the core subjects, 74% of pupils met the expected standard in reading with an average scaled score of 105, while 24% achieved a high score. In writing, 20% of children reached greater depth. Mathematics performance was particularly strong, with 78% reaching the expected standard and 30% achieving high scores, supported by an average scaled score of 106. Grammar, punctuation and spelling results were especially impressive: 78% met the expected standard and 37% achieved high scores, with an average scaled score of 107. Science outcomes were excellent, with 91% of pupils reaching the expected standard, significantly above the national figure of 82%.

The curriculum is described as good by Ofsted, and teaching is similarly rated. While the school does not operate as a specialist or selective institution, it provides a broad and balanced education designed to help all children reach their potential. The school's strong results suggest effective teaching methods and a clear focus on raising attainment, particularly for disadvantaged pupils and those with additional needs.

Staff work closely with external agencies to support children with special educational needs, and SEND provision is embedded within the mainstream setting. The school offers targeted interventions and personalised support to ensure every child can access learning and make progress.

Beyond the classroom, Haimo Primary School offers a varied extracurricular programme designed to develop pupils' interests and talents. Clubs include sewing, choir and football, and children are actively encouraged to participate in the wide range of activities on offer. The school operates a breakfast club and an after-school play club, providing wraparound care for working families.

Facilities include the standard range of primary school spaces—classrooms, a hall, outdoor play areas and designated early years provision. While the school does not boast cutting-edge specialist facilities, the environment is described as safe, friendly and conducive to learning. The school participates in Healthy Schools London, reflecting its commitment to promoting physical and mental wellbeing.

Pupils benefit from a culture of celebration and recognition. Awards and achievements are shared regularly, and the school fosters a growth mindset where effort and progress are valued as highly as attainment.

Haimo Primary School is a popular and heavily oversubscribed community primary. In the most recent admissions round, the school received 98 applications for just 28 Reception places, representing an oversubscription ratio of 3.5 to 1. All first-preference applicants who were offered a place received one, indicating that the school prioritises families who genuinely wish to attend. The furthest distance offered in the last round was 3.3 miles, though this figure likely reflects exceptional circumstances such as sibling priority or specific needs, as most community primaries serve much tighter catchment areas.

Applications for Reception entry are administered centrally by the Royal Borough of Greenwich. Children are admitted to Reception in the September following their fourth birthday. Parents must apply through the Greenwich online system, and admission is determined according to Greenwich's oversubscription criteria, which typically prioritise looked-after children, siblings, and proximity to the school. Nursery places (52 spaces for morning or afternoon sessions) are offered to children in the term after their third birthday, and applications for nursery are also managed by the local authority.

Given the high level of competition, families hoping for a place at Haimo should ensure they live within a realistic distance of the school and include it as a first preference to maximise their chances. In-year admissions are similarly administered by Greenwich, and places are allocated strictly according to the published criteria. The school's popularity is a reflection of its strong community reputation, solid academic results and nurturing environment.

For the most up-to-date admissions policies, criteria and application deadlines, parents should consult the Royal Borough of Greenwich website or contact the school directly on 0208 850 4911.

Haimo Primary School is a well-regarded community primary that successfully balances strong academic performance with exceptional pastoral care. Its standout feature is the Outstanding personal development provision, which creates an environment where children feel valued, safe and excited to learn. With results significantly above national averages, a diverse and inclusive community, and a clear commitment to partnership between home and school, Haimo offers a nurturing start to education for families in Eltham.

The school may not be the highest-performing primary in Greenwich, but it punches above its weight given its non-selective intake and serves its community with dedication and care. For parents seeking a warm, inclusive and effective primary school where their child's happiness and character development are prioritised alongside academic progress, Haimo Primary School is an excellent choice. Expect significant competition for places, and ensure you live within a realistic catchment distance or have sibling priority.

Is Haimo Primary School a good school?

Yes. Haimo Primary School is rated Good by Ofsted (March 2024), with Outstanding personal development. Academic results are well above national averages, with 77% of pupils achieving the expected standard in reading, writing and maths compared to the national figure of 62%. The school is praised for its inclusive ethos, strong community partnerships and the exceptional care and respect shown to all pupils.

How do I apply to Haimo Primary School?

Applications for Reception places are administered by the Royal Borough of Greenwich. Parents must apply online through the Greenwich admissions portal during the standard application window (typically opening in the autumn for the following September entry). Nursery applications are also managed by the local authority. For in-year admissions, contact Greenwich's school admissions team or visit the Royal Borough of Greenwich website.

What is the catchment area for Haimo Primary School?

Haimo Primary School does not operate a fixed catchment area. Admissions are managed by Greenwich and prioritised according to the local authority's oversubscription criteria, which typically include looked-after children, siblings and distance from the school. The furthest distance offered in the most recent round was 3.3 miles, but most families admitted live closer. The school is heavily oversubscribed (3.5 applications per place), so proximity is crucial.

Does Haimo Primary School have a nursery?

Yes. Haimo Primary School offers nursery provision for children from age 3, with 52 places available for either morning or afternoon sessions. Children are admitted in the term after their third birthday. Applications are managed by the Royal Borough of Greenwich.

What are the school hours at Haimo Primary School?

Specific school hours are not detailed in available sources. Parents should contact the school directly on 0208 850 4911 or visit the school website for up-to-date information on start and finish times. The school offers a breakfast club and after-school play club for wraparound care.