Cape Primary School in Smethwick, West Midlands, underwent an inspection on 27 and 28 June 2023, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has made significant improvements since its previous inspection, where it was rated as requiring improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision all received a good rating.
Pupils at Cape Primary School express happiness and a sense of belonging within a supportive community that celebrates diversity. The school promotes values that encourage resilience, kindness, and independent learning, fostering a positive learning environment. Pupils feel safe and supported by staff, who are attentive to their needs and concerns. The school has established strong relationships with parents, who feel heard and valued.
The curriculum is designed to meet the needs of all pupils, linking lessons to real-life experiences and community issues. Pupils engage in activities that raise awareness about homelessness and food poverty, and they take pride in their roles as reading ambassadors and safeguarding champions. This involvement helps them develop a sense of responsibility and community awareness.
Leaders have implemented numerous changes since the last inspection, supported by a new governing body that has a clear vision for the school. They prioritize the teaching of reading, ensuring that pupils learn phonics from an early age. As a result, an increasing number of pupils are able to read by the end of Year 2. Staff are well-trained to assist those who struggle with reading, providing daily phonics sessions to help them catch up. The focus on reading is complemented by efforts to enhance pupils' understanding and enjoyment of literature.
In mathematics, pupils are improving their knowledge of times tables and number bonds, which aids their problem-solving skills. The curriculum across various subjects encourages pupils to think critically and apply their knowledge. However, there are still some subjects where the curriculum lacks clarity regarding the specific knowledge pupils should acquire, leading to occasional confusion.
While many subjects have effective assessment methods in place, some do not, resulting in gaps in understanding of pupil progress. Leaders are aware of this and are working to ensure that assessment systems are purposeful and effectively utilized. Attendance remains a challenge, with a minority of pupils not attending regularly, which negatively impacts their learning.
Pupils exhibit positive behavior, showing kindness and thoughtfulness towards peers and teachers. The school has effective systems to manage behavior, and pupils understand the rules. However, attendance issues persist, and leaders are committed to improving this aspect by collaborating with parents and external agencies.
Pupils enjoy a range of extracurricular experiences, including trips that enhance their learning. They hold leadership roles and feel empowered to make a difference in their school and community. The school prepares pupils well for the next stage of their education, instilling a sense of good citizenship.
The safeguarding arrangements at Cape Primary School are effective, with staff trained to identify and report concerns. Leaders maintain communication with external agencies to support pupils in need. The curriculum includes important topics such as online safety and healthy relationships, ensuring pupils know how to seek help if needed.
In summary, Cape Primary School has made commendable progress since its last inspection, demonstrating a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive environment for all pupils. The school continues to work on areas for improvement, particularly in curriculum clarity and attendance, to ensure that every pupil can thrive.
