The Brow Community Primary School in Runcorn, Cheshire, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on June 8 and 9, 2022. The school provides a supportive and inclusive environment where pupils feel safe and valued. Students express enjoyment in attending the school, highlighting the strong relationships they have with both their peers and teachers. Staff members maintain high expectations for behavior and academic achievement, which encourages pupils to strive for success. The school fosters a sense of community, and pupils appreciate the recognition they receive for their positive contributions.
The curriculum at The Brow is ambitious and well-structured, catering for the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school ensures that the curriculum builds on prior knowledge, allowing pupils in key stages one and two to achieve well. Early years education is also of high quality, preparing children effectively for the transition to key stage one. Teachers are supported by leaders to deliver the curriculum effectively, with clear expectations regarding the knowledge and vocabulary that pupils need to learn.
Pupils are encouraged to engage in a variety of extracurricular activities, which enrich their educational experience. They participate in clubs such as choir, blogging, and ukulele, and benefit from trips that broaden their horizons. Older pupils take on leadership roles, helping younger students and contributing to school life through the school council. The school promotes values such as tolerance and respect, and pupils demonstrate a good understanding of British values, including democracy.
While the school excels in many areas, there are some aspects that require improvement. In a few subjects, teachers need to ensure that pupils grasp and utilize subject-specific vocabulary more effectively. This is important for enabling pupils to articulate their learning with the appropriate technical language. Additionally, the assessment systems in certain subjects are still developing, which can hinder teachers' ability to accurately gauge pupil progress and tailor support accordingly.
The school has made significant investments in resources to promote a love of reading among pupils. Children in the early years are well-prepared for phonics instruction, and staff receive regular training to enhance their teaching of reading. As a result, pupils are becoming confident and fluent readers, with effective support systems in place for those who may struggle.
The school’s safeguarding arrangements are robust, with staff receiving regular training to identify and address any concerns regarding pupil safety. Leaders maintain detailed records and take timely action when necessary. Pupils are educated about online safety and the importance of recognizing appropriate content, further contributing to their overall well-being.
Overall, The Brow Community Primary School is a good school that provides a nurturing environment for its pupils. The leadership team is committed to continuous improvement, focusing on enhancing the curriculum and ensuring that all pupils achieve their potential. With ongoing attention to vocabulary development and refining assessment practices, the school is well-positioned to build on its successes and further enhance the educational experience for all its students.
