Ofsted conducted a monitoring inspection of Northfield Primary School: With Communication Resource on July 6, 2023, following two successive judgments of requires improvement. The inspection aimed to assess the progress made by the school since its last graded inspection. The findings indicate that while the school continues to require improvement, there have been notable advancements in various areas.
The leadership team has made significant strides in enhancing the school’s curriculum. An assistant headteacher has been appointed to oversee curriculum development, which has led to effective support for staff in implementing strategic changes. The school development plan is clear and focused, with appropriate priorities identified for improvement. Subject leaders have successfully adapted published schemes of work to align with the school’s context and the needs of its pupils. This has resulted in a coherent and sequenced curriculum across many subjects.
During the inspection, it was observed that pupils are well aware of their learning objectives and can articulate their understanding of recent and past lessons. They demonstrate a strong grasp of subject-specific vocabulary, particularly in practical subjects like design and technology. The systems in place to assess pupils’ knowledge and retention are effective, and pupils appreciate how these systems aid their learning.
Reading has been prioritized within the school, and this focus is evident in the consistent teaching of the phonics program. Pupils are achieving well in phonics, and during reading skills lessons, they engage with appropriately challenging texts. This emphasis on reading is contributing positively to their overall literacy development.
Governance has also improved, with governors receiving support from the local authority and external consultants. This has enhanced their understanding of their roles and responsibilities, enabling them to challenge school leaders more effectively regarding the quality of education. The recruitment of governors with educational backgrounds has strengthened the governing body, allowing for more informed discussions about school performance.
The school has sought external validation and feedback on the changes implemented, which has been deemed useful by the leadership team. This external support has provided an additional layer of assurance regarding the direction of the school’s improvement efforts.
Despite these positive developments, the inspection concluded that further work is necessary for the school to achieve a good rating. The ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic was acknowledged, and it is clear that the school is still navigating challenges related to this. The leadership team is encouraged to maintain momentum in their improvement efforts and to continue fostering a collaborative environment among staff.
In summary, Northfield Primary School: With Communication Resource is making progress towards improvement, with effective leadership, a well-structured curriculum, and enhanced governance. However, the journey towards becoming a good school is ongoing, and sustained efforts will be essential to ensure that all pupils receive the high-quality education they deserve. The commitment to improvement is evident, and with continued focus and support, the school has the potential to achieve its goals.
