Greenfield Primary School, located in Walsall, West Midlands, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 25 and 26, 2023. The school fosters a safe and happy environment where pupils express a strong sense of belonging, often describing it as a family. Students demonstrate positive attitudes towards learning and exhibit good behavior in various settings, including classrooms, hallways, and playgrounds. The leadership team prioritizes the well-being of students, ensuring that bullying is not tolerated and that any incidents are addressed promptly.
The school has high expectations for pupil learning and is in the process of developing an ambitious curriculum that aims to cultivate expertise across multiple subjects. This includes a focus on inclusivity, as pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are supported to meet these expectations. The school promotes respect and tolerance among students, who take pride in learning about diverse beliefs and cultures. Opportunities for leadership, such as participation in the school council and sports leadership roles, are provided to pupils, enhancing their sense of responsibility.
Greenfield Primary School excels in its curriculum design, with most subjects showing strong pupil achievement. For instance, in design and technology, the curriculum is well-structured, allowing pupils to build skills over time. However, there are a few subjects where the sequencing of learning could be improved, as some pupils struggle to retain knowledge compared to others. Staff actively monitor pupil progress and provide additional support when gaps in learning are identified, particularly in phonics and mathematics.
Reading is a key focus area, with the school ensuring that pupils engage with high-quality texts to foster a love for reading. The phonics curriculum is introduced early in Reception, with well-trained staff guiding pupils through appropriate reading materials that align with their learning. This approach enables pupils to develop essential reading skills effectively.
The school demonstrates a commitment to supporting pupils with special educational needs, ensuring that their needs are identified early and that appropriate resources are provided. Teaching assistants play a vital role in this support, helping these pupils achieve their learning goals.
In the early years, children are supported in forming positive relationships with peers and adults, which aids their transition into school life. They engage enthusiastically with stories and rhymes, contributing to a joyful learning atmosphere. Pupils are encouraged to support one another in their learning, fostering independence and confidence.
While the school has made significant strides, there are areas for improvement. Attendance remains a challenge, with some pupils frequently absent, leading to gaps in their learning. Leaders are actively working with families to address this issue and promote regular attendance.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with staff trained to identify and respond to potential risks. The school collaborates with local agencies to educate pupils about safety, including online risks and local issues.
Overall, Greenfield Primary School continues to provide a nurturing and effective educational environment. The leadership team is dedicated to continuous improvement, focusing on enhancing the curriculum and addressing attendance challenges to ensure all pupils can thrive academically and socially. The school’s commitment to fostering a supportive community and high educational standards positions it well for future success.