Tillington Manor Primary School, located in Staffordshire, underwent an inspection on February 14 and 15, 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as requiring improvement, with the quality of education also falling into the same category. However, the school demonstrated good performance in areas such as behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision.
Pupils at Tillington Manor Primary School feel safe and enjoy their time at school. The inclusive nature of the school is appreciated by pupils, parents, and carers alike. Students engage in a broad curriculum, and leaders have made efforts to enhance the curriculum offerings. Despite these efforts, the curriculum is not yet fully developed, and the sequencing of content across all subjects is inconsistent. This inconsistency hinders pupils' ability to build their knowledge effectively. Leaders are committed to ensuring that all pupils succeed, but they recognize the need for further improvements in lesson delivery.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, which pupils find enjoyable. Initiatives like the 'Tillington 40' provide opportunities for students to participate in enriching experiences, such as visits to local attractions. Parents value these additional curricular enhancements, which contribute positively to their children's education.
In terms of behavior, pupils generally exhibit good conduct during lessons. They are aware of the procedures in place for reporting bullying and trust that staff will address any issues promptly. Teachers manage low-level disruptions effectively, allowing for a conducive learning environment. Pupils also learn to take on responsibilities, such as serving as office assistants and well-being champions, which fosters a sense of community and support among peers.
While leaders have outlined the knowledge they want pupils to acquire, some subjects lack clarity in expectations. The curriculum is at various stages of development, and assessment practices in certain subjects are still being refined. Leaders are actively working to strengthen the curriculum, but some teachers require additional training to deliver the intended content effectively. This gap in subject-specific knowledge can lead to missed opportunities for pupils to learn essential material.
Phonics instruction is a strength of the school, with trained staff ensuring that pupils have ample reading opportunities. The emphasis on reading is evident, and pupils are encouraged to read books that align with their phonics lessons. Staff are proactive in identifying pupils who may be falling behind and provide necessary support to help them catch up. The introduction of new reading materials has also contributed to expanding pupils' vocabulary and enhancing their writing skills.
In the early years, children benefit from a nurturing environment that promotes learning. Staff engage children with stories and songs, fostering social skills and encouraging the use of ambitious vocabulary. This approach effectively supports the development of spoken language skills.
Pupils' behavior is commendable throughout the school, starting from the early years. Leaders have established high expectations and consistent systems for rewarding and challenging pupils. The school prioritizes the mental well-being of students, teaching them to manage their emotions and providing support services for families in need.
The school has implemented a comprehensive program to support pupils' personal development, featuring a calendar of events and activities that promote responsibility, resilience, and respect. Pupils learn about diverse cultures and religions, enhancing their understanding of the world around them.
Governors collaborate effectively with school leaders, providing support and challenge to drive improvement. Staff express pride in their work environment and appreciate the consideration given to their workload and well-being.
The safeguarding arrangements at Tillington Manor Primary School are effective, with staff receiving regular training and being aware of their responsibilities. The school has systems in place to identify and address any concerns regarding pupil safety. Pupils are educated on safety issues, including internet safety and the dangers of substance abuse.
To improve, the school must focus on organizing and sequencing the curriculum more effectively across all subjects to enhance pupil progress. Additionally, ensuring that teachers possess the necessary subject-specific knowledge and effectively utilize assessment will be crucial in addressing gaps in learning.
