Albrighton Primary School and Nursery, located in Wolverhampton, West Midlands, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 10-11, 2020. The school is characterized by a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, where parents and carers appreciate the dedication of staff to children's learning and well-being. The leadership team has established high expectations for all pupils, ensuring that the curriculum is designed to interconnect various subjects, which aids in the retention of knowledge over time.
Pupils at Albrighton are aware of the school motto, only our best will do, and they take pride in their achievements, such as being recognized as class heroes or star performers in various categories. The school fosters a sense of community, with older pupils taking on roles as lunchtime buddies and play leaders, demonstrating caring attitudes towards their younger peers. Safety is a priority, and pupils feel secure in their environment, knowing that staff are attentive to their needs. The school also emphasizes the importance of online safety, providing education on how to navigate the internet responsibly.
Behavior among pupils is commendable, with reports of minimal bullying and a strong belief that any incidents are addressed promptly and fairly by adults. The school has implemented creative and engaging activities that link different subjects, enhancing the learning experience. For instance, Year 3 pupils were able to recall their experiences of making imaginative sandwiches while learning about healthy eating. The mathematics curriculum is carefully sequenced, allowing pupils to develop their skills effectively, although there is room for improvement in providing more challenging work for the most able pupils.
Reading is a strong focus at Albrighton, with phonics instruction starting from the first days of school. Daily reading lessons promote a love for literature, and staff are quick to identify and support pupils who may be falling behind. The school ensures that reading materials are aligned with pupils' interests and abilities, fostering enthusiasm for various authors and genres.
Support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is well-managed, with additional help provided to build their confidence and ensure they achieve their potential. The early years provision, including the nursery, is designed to be engaging and supportive, with adults prioritizing the development of language skills and independence among children.
Albrighton Primary School also offers a range of extracurricular experiences that help pupils explore their interests and talents. Activities such as forest school, museum visits, and partnerships with local organizations like RAF Cosford enrich the curriculum. Pupils learn about diverse cultures and values, engage in charitable activities, and develop positive attitudes towards their education.
The mental health and well-being of pupils are prioritized, with staff providing support for those experiencing anxiety or distress. The leadership team is well-regarded, with staff expressing pride in their work and appreciation for the manageable workload. The design and technology curriculum is thoughtfully planned, and leaders are actively working to enhance the skills of subject leaders across the school.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. The leadership of subjects outside of English and mathematics is still developing, and some foundation subject leaders require further training to effectively monitor curriculum implementation. Additionally, while the mathematics curriculum is well-structured, there is a need for pupils to have more opportunities to apply their skills across different subjects.
Overall, Albrighton Primary School and Nursery continues to provide a good quality of education, with a strong emphasis on pupil well-being, safety, and a well-rounded curriculum. The school is committed to ongoing improvement and ensuring that all pupils have the opportunity to thrive academically and personally.
