Springwood Heath Primary School, located on Danefield Road in Liverpool, Merseyside, has recently undergone an ungraded inspection on 17 and 18 May 2023. The overall judgement remains Good, but inspectors have recommended a graded inspection for the next assessment due to concerns about potential outcomes.
Students at Springwood Heath Primary School express a strong sense of pride in their school and appreciate the welcoming environment created by the staff. The specially resourced provision for students with special educational needs and/or disabilities fosters inclusivity and a cohesive school community. The overall atmosphere is one of happiness, with students eager to attend school each day.
The leadership team has established a nurturing environment where pupils feel safe and cared for. High expectations set by leaders are generally reflected in student behavior, and early years education emphasizes effective learning habits to prepare children for Key Stage 1. However, challenges in providing a high-quality education have led to underachievement in the past. Recent efforts to raise expectations and redesign the curriculum are ongoing, with progress being made but some subjects still in the early stages of development.
Despite the school's overall Good standing, performance has declined since the last inspection, particularly in reading, writing, and mathematics. New leadership has taken urgent actions to improve academic performance, including developing a more ambitious curriculum. Reading has been prioritized across the school, with a new phonics program introduced in 2021 leading to improved reading accuracy and confidence among students. Significant steps have also been taken to enhance the effectiveness of SEND provision.
Pupils generally exhibit positive attitudes towards school, with instances of poor behavior managed swiftly. The school prepares students for life in modern Britain by teaching them about various religions and cultures and offering extracurricular clubs. Governors have faced challenges in maintaining oversight of educational quality but are accessing training to better support school leaders. Staff express pride in their work environment and note that leaders are considerate of their workload and well-being.
Safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with staff well-informed about identifying and reporting concerns. While pupils are not at risk of harm, there are gaps in the documentation of safeguarding actions taken. Springwood Heath Primary School is a community-focused institution committed to inclusivity and student well-being, with proactive steps being taken to enhance the educational experience for all pupils. The upcoming graded inspection will be crucial in assessing progress and determining the future direction of the school.
