Temple Meadow Primary School, located in Cradley Heath, West Midlands, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 10 and 11, 2023. The school offers a rich and varied educational experience, with activities ranging from dance and performance in a dedicated studio to gardening projects and collaborations with artists. This diverse range of experiences contributes to a positive atmosphere where pupils look forward to attending school and are enthusiastic about learning.
The leadership and staff at Temple Meadow maintain high expectations for all pupils, serving as supportive role models who instill important values. They emphasize the significance of respectful and safe behavior, which most pupils respond to positively. Instances of bullying are rare, and when they do occur, staff address them effectively. Although some challenging behavior can arise, it is managed well, resulting in calm classrooms where pupils feel safe and secure.
The school has recently implemented a new approach to teaching reading, which is already yielding positive results. However, in certain subjects, the curriculum and assessment methods require further organization. Leaders are actively working to enhance these areas to better prepare pupils for secondary education.
The headteacher, along with other leaders and staff, is attuned to the community's needs and strives to provide enjoyable and memorable experiences for pupils. A structured phonics program has been introduced, and staff have received training to deliver it effectively. There is a focus on ensuring that all pupils keep up with their peers, with additional support for those who need to catch up. While there is still work to be done to fully embed these practices across the school, progress is being made.
In subjects like art and design, the curriculum is engaging and allows pupils to build their knowledge over time. Collaborative projects with artists have resulted in impressive artwork, such as a mosaic inspired by the Commonwealth Games. This focus on the arts also supports the school's commitment to diversity and inclusivity.
Despite the strengths of the curriculum, there are areas that require improvement. In history, for example, leaders have not sufficiently defined the essential learning objectives for pupils, leading to uncertainty among staff regarding content focus. In the early years, while the approach to early reading has improved, other areas of the curriculum lack a similar structure, which can hinder children's preparedness for key stage one.
Assessment practices in some subjects need refinement, as current systems do not accurately reflect what pupils know and understand. This issue partly stems from disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, but it also highlights the need for clearer curriculum design in certain areas.
Leaders and staff effectively identify the specific needs of pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they have access to the same curriculum as their peers. Beyond academic lessons, pupils are encouraged to take on responsibilities through initiatives like the Pupil Parliament, which fosters confidence and a sense of contribution.
Staff generally feel supported by leaders in their work and well-being, and governors are well-informed about the school's operations, enabling them to fulfill their responsibilities effectively. The school's safeguarding arrangements are robust, with staff trained to recognize and report concerns, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
Overall, while Temple Meadow Primary School demonstrates many strengths, there are areas for further development, particularly in curriculum design and assessment practices, to ensure all pupils achieve their full potential.
