Howley Grange Primary School, located in Halesowen, West Midlands, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 20 and 21, 2023. The school fosters a strong sense of community where every pupil is valued and treated equally, embodying the values of achieve, believe, and care. Pupils express pride in their school and demonstrate respectful behavior towards one another and the staff. The school maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards bullying, and records indicate that incidents are rare and dealt with promptly. During break times, pupils engage positively with one another, ensuring that no one feels excluded, contributing to a safe and supportive environment.
The leadership and staff at Howley Grange are committed to ensuring that pupils achieve academically by the time they leave the school. The curriculum is designed to be ambitious, with clear learning objectives identified for each subject. In the early years, children are encouraged to learn through play, exploration, and creativity. However, there are instances where opportunities for deeper learning in Years 1 to 6 are occasionally missed. Teachers present information clearly and employ various strategies to help pupils retain key knowledge and vocabulary. Assessment practices are effective, allowing teachers to identify gaps in learning and address them promptly.
Pupils are supported in their reading development, with a strong emphasis on phonics to foster fluency. Those requiring additional help are provided with the necessary support to catch up quickly. While pupils enjoy listening to stories and discussing texts, some lack familiarity with a diverse range of authors and genres. The mathematics curriculum has been strengthened, with a well-structured approach that helps pupils develop a solid understanding of mathematical concepts. Teachers utilize engaging activities to reinforce learning and ensure that pupils can confidently tackle complex calculations.
The school is inclusive, providing equal opportunities for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Leaders work closely with teachers to identify individual needs, and a small number of pupils receive personalized curricula to support their learning. However, there are occasions when activities for these pupils are not adequately tailored to their needs, which can hinder their progress.
The personal development curriculum is well-planned, covering essential topics such as friendships, healthy relationships, and mental health. Pupils are encouraged to take on leadership roles within the school, participating in various extracurricular activities that enhance their confidence and skills. The headteacher's inspirational leadership has fostered a collaborative culture among staff and governors, ensuring that workload remains manageable.
Safeguarding measures at Howley Grange are effective, with a strong culture of vigilance among staff. Regular updates and training ensure that staff are well-informed about safeguarding practices. Pupils learn about safety through the curriculum, covering topics such as water safety and e-safety, and they know how to seek help if needed.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Leaders should focus on enhancing the depth of learning in certain subjects and encourage pupils to explore a wider range of texts to broaden their literary knowledge. Additionally, support for pupils with special educational needs should be further refined to ensure that all activities are closely aligned with their individual needs. Overall, Howley Grange Primary School continues to provide a nurturing and effective educational environment for its pupils.
