Stanley Grove Primary and Nursery School has been recognized as a good school following its inspection in February 2020. The school is deeply integrated into the local community, with a motto that emphasizes readiness for both school and life. The leadership team, including the headteacher, is committed to ensuring that all pupils achieve their best and develop into responsible citizens. Parents express satisfaction with the school's curriculum, which effectively balances academic rigor with a diverse range of subjects, including outdoor learning experiences.
Pupils at Stanley Grove are happy and eager to attend school, appreciating the supportive environment provided by the staff. The school promotes high expectations for behavior, and instances of bullying are rare. When issues arise, staff are quick to address them, fostering a culture of respect and understanding. The school has implemented mental health initiatives, such as the 'Find Your Brave' program, which equips pupils with strategies to manage their emotions and worries.
The curriculum has been a focal point for improvement since the last inspection. Leaders have developed clear learning plans that outline the knowledge and skills pupils should acquire from Nursery through Year 6. Staff are knowledgeable about the curriculum, and pupils demonstrate good achievement across various subjects. However, there is a need for further emphasis on vocabulary development, as pupils are not yet fully utilizing the vocabulary necessary to make connections across subjects.
Outdoor learning is incorporated into the curriculum, enhancing pupils' experiences and understanding of their local environment. The mathematics curriculum is well-structured, allowing pupils to build on their prior knowledge effectively. Teachers assess what pupils already know and tailor activities to ensure a solid understanding of mathematical concepts. Music education is also a strong point, with all pupils given the opportunity to learn an instrument and engage in various musical activities.
Reading and phonics are prioritized, with staff believing that strong reading skills are essential for future success. The school provides a wide selection of books and daily reading sessions, fostering a love for reading among pupils. Younger children receive a solid foundation in literacy, with assessments conducted early in Reception to identify their phonetic knowledge.
The school is inclusive, ensuring that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities learn alongside their peers. The special needs coordinator works closely with staff and external professionals to provide tailored support for these pupils, enabling them to achieve well from their starting points.
Pupils enjoy extracurricular activities, including trips and competitions, which enrich their learning experiences. The school has effective safeguarding measures in place, with a strong culture of safety and well-being. Staff are well-trained and knowledgeable about safeguarding protocols, ensuring that pupils receive timely support when needed.
While the school has many strengths, there is a need to enhance vocabulary usage across the curriculum to help pupils make deeper connections in their learning. Leaders are encouraged to continue refining their curriculum plans to support vocabulary development effectively. Overall, Stanley Grove Primary and Nursery School is a nurturing environment where pupils thrive academically and socially, preparing them for future challenges.
