Amington Heath Primary School and Nursery in Tamworth, Staffordshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on April 23 and 24, 2024. The school is characterized by a friendly atmosphere where pupils develop positive relationships with both staff and peers. New students who join mid-year are welcomed warmly, allowing them to settle in quickly. The school maintains high expectations for pupil achievement, striving to make learning an engaging adventure for all, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. This approach has resulted in pupils generally achieving well, driven by their excitement for learning and desire to excel.
Pupils adhere to the behavior expectations of being respectful, responsible, and ready, which contributes to a conducive learning environment. Disruptions during lessons are minimal, and staff effectively manage the behavior of those who require additional support, fostering a sense of safety among students. The playground is exceptionally well-equipped, offering a variety of activities during break times, from active play like riding scooters and ball games to quieter options such as reading in a gazebo. Some pupils take on the role of play experts, ensuring that everyone enjoys their playtime.
The school offers a range of clubs, including drama, cookery, and film club, with a rotating selection to cater to diverse interests and talents. The curriculum is thoughtfully organized, with leaders designing an ambitious program that supports all pupils, including those with SEND. Learning is structured around mini adventures, which begin with a captivating introduction and conclude with a significant outcome, providing pupils with a clear purpose for their studies. Regular assessments, such as the Flashback Friday quiz, help teachers gauge pupils' retention of knowledge and adapt future lessons accordingly.
The curriculum is sequenced to ensure that pupils develop their skills progressively. For instance, younger children in Nursery use story maps to explore traditional tales, while older pupils in Year 6 engage in orienteering challenges using ordnance survey maps. Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and select engaging materials, particularly in mathematics, where a familiar lesson structure helps pupils feel confident and challenged. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the presentation of written work, as some pupils struggle with handwriting and spelling, which affects their clarity and fluency in writing.
Support for pupils with SEND is highly effective, with robust systems in place to identify and meet individual needs. Teachers make necessary adaptations in lessons to ensure these pupils can achieve well. The early years staff focus on building communication skills, laying a strong foundation for later phonics instruction. Daily reading opportunities are provided, with a focus on culturally diverse literature. Staff are well-trained in early reading instruction, ensuring that pupils read with confidence and fluency by the time they leave the school.
The school prioritizes good attendance and offers support to families facing challenges in getting their children to school regularly. As a result, attendance rates are improving. Outdoor learning is emphasized, with pupils engaging in subjects like mathematics and geography in a forest area. The school organizes various events, such as horse riding and visits to places of worship, to broaden pupils' horizons. Annual aspirations week introduces students to a variety of careers, encouraging ambition and responsibility through leadership opportunities in initiatives like climate crew and school council.
The pastoral support provided by the school is effective in helping pupils manage their emotions, extending support to families as well. The school is a central part of the local community, offering programs like toddle and crawl sessions and workshops for parents, as well as operating a food bank. Leadership at the school is strong, with passionate leaders committed to providing an excellent educational experience. Governors are well-informed and ensure that the school's systems function effectively, while staff feel valued and supported in their roles.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Moving forward, the school aims to improve the consistency of expectations regarding the presentation of pupils' work, addressing handwriting and spelling errors more robustly to enhance overall writing fluency. This inspection marks the first ungraded evaluation since the school was last judged to be good in November 2018, and it reflects the ongoing commitment to maintaining high standards in education.