Allens Croft Primary School, located in Kings Heath, Birmingham, has undergone an inspection that highlights both its strengths and areas for improvement. The school has a broad and ambitious curriculum, particularly excelling in the arts, as evidenced by its platinum Artsmark status. The staff effectively adapt learning for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that these students receive the support they need. This year, the introduction of new schemes has allowed pupils to engage with foundation subjects more deeply, leading to improved retention of knowledge and overall learning outcomes.
The school fosters a welcoming environment where warm relationships between adults and pupils are evident. Pupils feel safe and know they can approach staff with concerns. Generally, students are eager to learn and display good behavior during lessons and social interactions. However, instances of misbehavior do occur, occasionally disrupting lessons, and the school continues to face challenges with low attendance rates.
Pupils are taught to respect diverse cultures and traditions, with initiatives like learning Makaton enhancing communication among peers. Opportunities for responsibility, such as participation in school councils and play leadership, are available, and educational trips enrich the learning experience. The school offers a variety of after-school clubs and activities, promoting a well-rounded education.
In terms of academic performance, Allens Croft Primary School covers all subjects in the national curriculum. Recent changes to the curriculum have been well-implemented, with leaders identifying gaps in pupils' prior knowledge and ensuring that new learning builds on existing understanding. Improvements in English and mathematics have addressed previous weaknesses, resulting in better outcomes for pupils. The structured phonics program from early years onwards has prioritized reading, enabling pupils to develop fluency and enthusiasm for reading.
Teachers demonstrate secure subject knowledge and effectively break down learning into manageable steps. They identify key vocabulary for pupils and regularly assess understanding, adjusting their teaching accordingly. In mathematics, pupils utilize practical resources to enhance their learning and apply their skills in various contexts.
The school is committed to supporting pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they follow the full curriculum and make good progress. Leaders accurately identify learning needs and provide appropriate guidance, particularly in the resourced provision for pupils with significant additional needs.
While the school has high expectations for behavior, inconsistencies in the application of the behavior policy have led to some disruptions in learning. Records of behavior incidents are not always accurate, hindering effective planning for improvement. Attendance remains a concern, with persistent absenteeism affecting continuity in learning and personal development opportunities. The school recognizes the need for intensive collaboration with parents to emphasize the importance of regular attendance.
Pupils participate in a personal development program that promotes health and safety awareness, understanding of diversity, and respect for others. They have opportunities to take on responsibilities within the school community. Staff generally work well together, and leaders are mindful of their workload. However, staffing challenges have impacted the consistency of behavior and attendance management.
The school maintains effective safeguarding arrangements, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. To improve, the school must address the high levels of persistent absenteeism and enhance the accuracy of behavior records. Senior leaders need to ensure they have the capacity to manage their workload effectively, allowing for consistent application of policies related to behavior and attendance.
Overall, Allens Croft Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a quality education, with notable strengths in curriculum delivery and support for diverse learners. However, addressing the challenges of behavior management and attendance will be crucial for the school to enhance its overall effectiveness and ensure that all pupils can thrive in their educational journey.
