Florendine Primary School, located in Amington, Tamworth, Staffordshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on October 15-16, 2019. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils work and play together harmoniously. Students express feeling safe due to the attentive nature of the staff, who prioritize getting to know each pupil well. The school emphasizes safety education, particularly regarding internet use, and pupils report that instances of bullying are rare, with prompt action taken by adults when necessary. The behavior of pupils is commendable, reflecting a clear code of conduct based on respect, and older students often assist younger ones, promoting a caring community.
Teachers at Florendine Primary School maintain high expectations and design engaging lessons that connect pupils to real-world issues, such as environmental awareness during Earth Week. This approach enhances pupils' motivation and achievement. The curriculum is structured to develop personal values, with a focus on character traits that are integrated into lessons and school life. Leaders are committed to ensuring that every pupil succeeds, and subject leaders are passionate about their areas, effectively linking subjects to enhance learning.
While the curriculum is well-planned in most areas, there are some inconsistencies in how geography and history skills are developed compared to other subjects. Leaders are aware of this and are working to improve the sequential learning in these areas. The school provides enriching experiences, such as residential trips and special events, which contribute to pupils' enjoyment and personal development. Pupils engage in various activities, including charity work and cultural education, fostering respect and understanding among peers.
Mathematics instruction has been notably improved, with teachers now focusing on building knowledge over time and tailoring tasks to different abilities. This has led to better outcomes, particularly in Year 2, where results exceeded the national average. However, Year 6 results still lag behind, although current work indicates that pupils are making progress. Phonics instruction is robust, ensuring that early readers develop essential skills. Daily reading lessons are conducted, and teachers read aloud to instill a love for literature. Nonetheless, there are instances where weaker readers in Key Stage 1 are assigned texts that do not match their reading level, which needs addressing.
In the Reception class, children settle quickly and engage in stimulating activities that promote independence and exploration. The support for pupils with special educational needs is commendable, with tailored plans ensuring they receive the necessary assistance to thrive in their learning environment. Staff morale is high, reflecting a supportive leadership approach that manages workloads effectively.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with staff trained to recognize and report concerns. Leaders conduct thorough checks to ensure the safety of all adults working with children. Feedback from parents indicates a strong sense of safety within the school community.
To enhance the educational experience further, leaders must ensure that reading tasks across all subjects align with pupils' reading abilities, particularly for those who struggle. Additionally, the curriculum in history and geography requires better organization to ensure comprehensive coverage of the national curriculum. Overall, Florendine Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a quality education and nurturing environment for its pupils.
