Broom Cottages Primary and Nursery School is a nurturing environment where students thrive academically and socially. The school has made significant progress since its previous inspection, moving from a grade of Requires Improvement to Good across all areas of evaluation. The leadership team has established strong relationships with families, fostering a sense of community and ensuring that pupils feel valued and heard. The school promotes a culture of respect, safety, and responsibility among its students, who demonstrate positive behavior both in and out of the classroom.
In the early years, children quickly adapt to routines and engage in a variety of activities that promote collaboration and learning. Parents report that their children flourish in this supportive setting. The curriculum is broad and well-structured, allowing pupils to explore subjects like art and science through hands-on experiences. For instance, students draw inspiration from renowned artists and engage in scientific investigations, which enhances their understanding and retention of knowledge.
Teachers are attentive to the needs of all students, particularly those who may struggle, ensuring that support is provided promptly. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the assessment of learning in subjects like science and history. Some teachers are uncertain about the extent of pupils' understanding, which can hinder the identification of areas needing attention. The leadership team is aware of these challenges and is actively working to refine assessment strategies to better gauge student progress.
Mathematics instruction has been prioritized, with a new program implemented that breaks down content into manageable steps. This approach has been beneficial, especially for students who experienced learning gaps during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additional support has been provided for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, enabling them to catch up effectively.
Reading is another focus area, with a systematic phonics program introduced from the Reception class. All staff are trained to deliver this program consistently, ensuring that pupils have ample opportunities to practice their reading skills. Most students achieve reading fluency by the end of Key Stage 1, and those who require extra help receive targeted interventions. The school encourages a love of reading through engaging literature and regular read-aloud sessions, which inspire students to explore books independently.
While the school excels in many areas, there are still aspects of personal development that require attention. Leaders recognize that some pupils struggle with communication skills and self-confidence. Initiatives in the early years have been implemented to address these issues, but similar strategies need to be extended throughout the school.
The safeguarding measures in place are robust, with a strong culture of safety promoted by the leadership team. Staff are well-trained to identify and address any concerns, ensuring that pupils are aware of how to keep themselves safe, both online and offline. The governing body is actively involved in safeguarding practices, maintaining a thorough understanding of current issues.
Overall, Broom Cottages Primary and Nursery School provides a positive learning environment where pupils are encouraged to excel academically and develop essential life skills. The leadership team is committed to continuous improvement, focusing on refining assessment practices and enhancing personal development opportunities for all students. The school is well-positioned to build on its successes and address the areas identified for further growth.
