Halesowen CofE Primary School, located in Halesowen, West Midlands, underwent an inspection on June 21 and 22, 2022. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as requiring improvement, with specific areas such as the quality of education and leadership and management also marked as requiring improvement. However, the school demonstrated good behaviour and attitudes, as well as personal development among its pupils. The previous inspection in March 2017 had rated the school as good.
Pupils expressed enjoyment in attending the school, feeling safe and well cared for by their teachers. They displayed understanding and tolerance towards one another, emphasizing the importance of social skills for their future. The school’s values are evident in the way they foster character development among students. Behaviour in the school is generally good, with pupils adhering to routines and demonstrating good manners. They are aware of different types of bullying but report that such incidents are rare, with staff taking swift action if they occur.
Leaders at the school have high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. However, there is a noted lack of oversight in ensuring that teachers consistently implement the planned curriculum. The organization of the curriculum sometimes leads to gaps in learning across different subjects. While leaders are aware of the pupils' needs and strive to provide enriching experiences, some activities that were paused due to the pandemic have not yet resumed.
Parents appreciate the support provided by school leaders, noting that their children's feelings and wishes are taken into account. The school has created an inclusive environment where pupils feel heard and supported. Initiatives such as coaching from local football players and healthy eating challenges have been well received, with pupils recognizing the importance of exercise and self-care.
Despite the positive aspects, there are areas for improvement. While pupils enjoy their lessons and find them engaging, inconsistencies in teaching methods, particularly in phonics, have been identified. Some pupils rely on staff for assistance in reading unfamiliar words, indicating a need for more effective strategies. In the early years, opportunities to develop language and vocabulary are sometimes missed.
Leaders acknowledge the need for curriculum development, particularly in how subjects are organized. Recent staff absences have hindered progress in this area, but efforts are underway to address these challenges. Gaps in knowledge can occur due to the way subjects are taught intermittently, and leaders have not yet ensured that teachers effectively identify and address these gaps.
The school prioritizes personal and social development, utilizing the local area to enhance the curriculum. Pupils have engaged in outdoor learning experiences, although the absence of clubs and enrichment activities post-pandemic has limited opportunities for skill development beyond the classroom.
Staff maintain positive relationships with pupils, fostering a calm learning environment where students are eager to learn. High expectations are set for all pupils, including those with special educational needs, and support is tailored to meet their needs effectively.
Governance has faced challenges, with a shortage of governors impacting the level of support and challenge provided to school leaders. There is a need for a full governing body with the necessary skills to ensure a high-quality education for pupils.
The safeguarding arrangements in place are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to concerns. Pupils are educated on safety and healthy relationships, and all required checks on adults in the school are conducted properly.
To improve, the school must enhance the support and challenge provided by governors, carefully evaluate the curriculum organization to prevent gaps in learning, and ensure effective monitoring of curriculum implementation by teachers. Additionally, the resumption of enrichment activities is essential to broaden pupils' development opportunities.
