Grove School in Handsworth, Birmingham, has been recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on October 24 and 25, 2023. The school is characterized by a positive and welcoming atmosphere where pupils arrive with smiles and feel exceptionally safe and cared for. The well-maintained school environment contributes to a sense of security and well-being among students. The kindness exhibited by both staff and pupils is a notable aspect of the school culture, fostering a supportive community where everyone is treated with respect.
The commitment of the staff to the academic success of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, is commendable. Teachers are dedicated to ensuring that every child achieves their best, regardless of their starting point. This dedication is evident in the way pupils engage with their learning, demonstrating good focus and behavior throughout the school day. The school has established clear rules and reminders that help maintain a conducive learning environment.
Grove School excels in its approach to teaching reading, with staff being skilled phonics teachers. They effectively identify gaps in pupils' reading abilities and provide targeted support to help them catch up. The school ensures that all pupils read books that align with their phonetic knowledge, promoting accurate and fluent reading. Additionally, the selection of high-quality texts for various subjects enhances pupils' enthusiasm for reading.
In mathematics, the school has recently implemented a new teaching approach that aids pupils in retaining essential facts, enabling them to tackle more complex problems with confidence. While many curriculum areas are well-designed, the school acknowledges the need to improve assessment strategies in a few subjects to ensure that pupils' understanding is thoroughly evaluated.
The school's support for pupils with special educational needs is impressive, with staff quickly identifying their needs and providing tailored support. This careful approach allows these pupils to make significant progress. Early years education is also a strength, with children in nursery classes showing high levels of concentration and independence through engaging activities.
Grove School places a strong emphasis on developing responsible citizens. Pupils learn the importance of tolerance and respect, understanding the value of diversity. Opportunities for leadership, such as being school councillors or peer mediators, empower pupils to take on responsibilities. The school also offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including clubs and trips, which enrich the pupils' educational experience.
Pupils demonstrate a solid understanding of safety, both online and in their community, and are encouraged to think about the needs of others. The leadership team, including governors, is dedicated to the best interests of the pupils, and the school's partnership with parents is a notable strength. Parents express high levels of satisfaction with the education and support their children receive.
The inspection concluded that the arrangements for safeguarding are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and supported. However, the school is encouraged to enhance its assessment strategies across all subjects to better identify gaps in learning and support pupils' progression. Overall, Grove School continues to provide a nurturing and effective educational environment, fostering both academic achievement and personal development among its pupils.
