Ofsted conducted a monitoring inspection of Crowmoor Primary School and Nursery on May 14 and 15, 2024, following the school's previous grading that required special measures in January 2023. The inspection aimed to assess the progress made since the last evaluation rather than to assign an overall effectiveness grade. The inspection team, including His Majesty's Inspector, engaged with school leaders, the interim executive board, and local authority representatives to discuss the actions taken for improvement. They reviewed documentation related to improvement planning, governance, and special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), and observed lessons while speaking with staff and pupils.
The findings indicate that while progress has been made, further work is necessary for the school to be removed from special measures. The school has undergone significant leadership changes, with support from Shine Academies beginning in April 2023 and an interim executive board appointed in July 2023. The trust took control of school improvement in October 2023, and a new acting headteacher was appointed. A permanent head of school is expected to start in September 2024.
Safeguarding processes were initially found to be lacking but have since been effectively addressed. The school has improved site security and record-keeping, and all staff have received appropriate safeguarding training. Concerns raised are now acted upon swiftly, leading to increased staff confidence in the leadership's responsiveness.
The curriculum has been thoroughly reviewed, and leaders have ensured it is designed to promote progressive learning. However, implementation is still in the early stages for some subjects, particularly affecting older pupils who have gaps in their learning due to previous inadequate provision and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Younger pupils are making better progress with the revised curriculum, but older students require additional support to catch up.
Significant improvements have been made in the teaching of reading and phonics, with effective use of support from external phonics leads. Younger pupils are benefiting from high-quality phonics instruction, although some older pupils still struggle with phonics knowledge and need further assistance to become confident readers.
In the early years, staffing has stabilized, and effective support from the trust has enhanced provision. Collaborative work among leaders is strengthening improvement planning, and recent investments in resources have positively impacted the quality of education for young children. However, there is still work to be done to ensure all children receive the best possible education.
The trust's support has been crucial in improving SEND provision, which previously did not meet the needs of vulnerable pupils. Training for staff has focused on identifying and addressing the needs of these pupils, leading to more effective support. While progress has been made, there is still a need to address the shortcomings of past SEND provision.
Staff morale has improved significantly under the current acting headteacher's leadership, with staff feeling valued and supported. The trust has provided exceptional support, and the interim executive board has played a vital role in overseeing improvements. They share a vision for further enhancement and provide necessary challenges to ensure the positive changes are embedded.
Overall, while Crowmoor Primary School and Nursery has made notable progress since the last inspection, continued efforts are required to ensure sustained improvement and to meet the needs of all pupils effectively. The commitment of staff and leadership, along with the support from the trust, is essential for the ongoing development of the school.
