Somerville Primary School located in Small Heath, Birmingham, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 1 and 2, 2022. The school is well-integrated into the local community and is led by dedicated leaders and staff who prioritize the well-being and success of every child. Pupils express happiness and a sense of safety while attending school, although there are a few students whose attendance could improve. The school has achieved notable academic and personal success, with pupils taking pride in the various awards received, including the Investors in Pupils accolade. During the inspection, engaging activities such as storytelling sessions with visiting authors were highlighted as effective methods to foster a love for reading among students.
The school maintains high expectations for pupil behavior, and staff promptly address any bullying incidents. The students demonstrate commendable behavior both in lessons and throughout the school environment. Parents and caregivers have expressed strong satisfaction with the support their children receive, emphasizing the accommodating nature of the school staff.
Somerville Primary School has developed an ambitious curriculum that is well-structured, allowing pupils to build knowledge progressively across most subjects. The school has prioritized support for students needing to catch up due to the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in positive learning outcomes. Teachers consistently set high expectations and conduct regular assessments to tailor their teaching to meet the needs of all pupils, ensuring that they achieve well.
However, the development of the curriculum in certain subjects, particularly geography and music, has faced delays due to the pandemic. Leaders are aware of this and are working to advance these areas. In the early years, children adapt well to school life, with staff carefully planning learning experiences that cater to their developmental needs. The emphasis on reading is evident, with a well-structured reading curriculum and effective phonics instruction in place. Pupils engage with a variety of reading materials and benefit from regular library visits.
The school excels in promoting pupils' personal development, with a strong focus on mental health and well-being. Activities such as yoga and aromatherapy sessions, along with extracurricular opportunities, contribute to a well-rounded educational experience. Pupils learn about equality and respect for diversity, participating in community service initiatives that foster empathy and social responsibility.
Leaders demonstrate a thorough understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement. The governing body actively holds the headteacher accountable for the school's performance, ensuring regular evaluations of the school's work. While subject leaders are generally enthusiastic, some new leaders require additional support to effectively monitor their areas of responsibility.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with staff trained to recognize and report concerns promptly. Pupils receive education on online safety and healthy relationships, equipping them with essential knowledge to navigate potential risks. Despite the overall positive environment, a small number of pupils do not attend school regularly, which can hinder their learning progress.
To enhance the school's performance, leaders must focus on improving attendance rates and evaluating the impact of the revised curriculum in geography and music. Additionally, providing support and training for new leaders will help them effectively assess and improve their areas of responsibility. Overall, Somerville Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
