Cotteridge Primary School, located in Birmingham, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on April 25 and 26, 2023. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils express enjoyment in their learning and take pride in representing the school in various activities, including sports tournaments and forest school lessons. The affection pupils have for their school is evident, particularly among Year 6 students who expressed sadness at the thought of leaving. The school prioritizes safety, teaching pupils essential safety messages from an early age and ensuring that both pupils and parents have access to support when needed.
The leadership team at Cotteridge Primary School is ambitious for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum is carefully adapted to meet the needs of all learners, resulting in strong achievements, particularly in reading and mathematics. Pupils demonstrate respect and politeness, with impressive behavior observed from the youngest children, who follow instructions and share resources willingly.
The school excels in providing a balanced and engaging curriculum, with a strong focus on building knowledge over time, especially in English and mathematics. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in identifying crucial knowledge and vocabulary in some subjects, including the early years curriculum. Teachers possess good subject knowledge and provide appropriate support, ensuring that pupils understand tasks and receive timely interventions when necessary.
Expectations for pupils with special educational needs are high, and they have access to the same curriculum as their peers. The school employs effective strategies to identify and support these pupils, working closely with external agencies to provide additional resources and specialized input. Reading is a key focus, with regular story time and high-quality texts enhancing pupils' love for books. Phonics is taught effectively, and pupils are encouraged to read at home, which aids in developing their reading fluency and confidence.
Pupils exhibit good behavior in lessons and during breaks, with low levels of disruption reported. The school has a consistent approach to behavior management, and pupils are motivated to earn rewards through a house points system. The personal development of pupils is a notable strength, with a strong understanding of diversity and respect for others. Pupils are encouraged to take on leadership roles and participate in various extracurricular activities, which help them develop their interests beyond the classroom.
While the school has made strides in improving attendance, some pupils still miss school regularly, impacting their academic progress and personal development. The staff is united and positive about the school, appreciating the leadership's support for their well-being and workload.
The safeguarding arrangements at Cotteridge Primary School are effective, with a strong culture of safeguarding established. Staff are well-trained to recognize and report concerns, and leaders take swift action to address any issues. The school integrates safety education into all aspects of school life, ensuring pupils understand road, fire, and online safety.
To enhance its performance, the school needs to identify key knowledge and vocabulary across all subjects to fill gaps in pupils' understanding. Additionally, continued efforts are required to improve attendance among persistently absent pupils, ensuring they do not fall behind their peers. Overall, Cotteridge Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and enriching educational experience for all its pupils.
