Albany Village Primary School is recognized as a good school, providing a friendly and inclusive environment where pupils feel happy and safe. The school promotes positive behavior among students, who are kind and considerate to one another. Instances of bullying are rare, and the school leadership takes a firm stance against it. The strong relationships between staff and pupils contribute significantly to the supportive atmosphere, ensuring that students know they can approach staff with any concerns. Communication with parents has improved, and many express their satisfaction with the school's performance.
The new headteacher has successfully enhanced staff morale and fostered a united team dedicated to delivering high-quality learning experiences. The school motto, encouraging pupils to reach their own stars, inspires both staff and students. Leaders have developed an ambitious curriculum with high expectations for all pupils, and recent curriculum changes are already yielding positive results. The school emphasizes both academic achievement and pastoral care, offering a variety of extracurricular clubs, including Lego, choir, and rugby, which enrich the students' educational experience.
While the school has many strengths, leaders recognize that some pupils have not previously achieved their full potential. Staff are actively working to provide appropriate support to ensure all pupils can learn effectively and retain knowledge across the curriculum. The curriculum is designed to develop expertise in a wide range of subjects, with careful sequencing to meet the needs of all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities.
However, there are areas for improvement. In some subjects, the planned activities do not always align with the most critical learning objectives, leading to difficulties in making connections to the intended learning outcomes. Although assessment practices in reading and mathematics are effective, some wider curriculum subjects lack sufficient checks on pupils' understanding, which can hinder their progress.
Reading is a priority at Albany Village Primary School, with a well-implemented phonics program that helps pupils develop their reading skills. Teachers regularly assess pupils' phonics knowledge and provide additional support to those who need it, fostering a love of reading throughout the school. In mathematics, staff demonstrate a solid understanding of the curriculum, using effective questioning techniques to challenge pupils and reinforce previous learning.
The early years program prepares children well for Year 1, focusing on developing spoken language and vocabulary. Staff are skilled in modeling and extending children's language skills. The school has established clear systems for identifying and supporting pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they receive the necessary help to access the full curriculum.
Pupils exhibit good behavior throughout the school, demonstrating concentration and respect for the school's rules. The reward system is valued by students, contributing to a positive learning environment. Leaders promote personal development effectively, teaching pupils about fundamental British values and encouraging reflection on inspirational figures. Enrichment activities, such as visits to local places of interest and the Albany Village music festival, provide opportunities for pupils to showcase their talents.
The school has made swift improvements that positively impact the quality of education. Governors are actively involved, supporting and challenging school leaders in their efforts. There is a strong team ethos, with leaders working collaboratively with staff to enhance their skills and well-being. Staff appreciate the consideration given to their workload and are provided with the necessary time to fulfill their responsibilities.
Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of vigilance among staff. Regular training ensures that staff are equipped to identify and report concerns promptly. The school collaborates closely with parents and external agencies to provide timely support for pupils in need. The curriculum includes components that help pupils recognize and manage risks, reinforcing the importance of speaking to trusted adults for support.
To further improve, the school should focus on ensuring that activities in foundation subjects align with key learning objectives and that teachers accurately assess pupils' understanding to identify knowledge gaps. By providing targeted training and support, leaders can enhance teachers' skills in selecting appropriate activities and checking for understanding, ultimately improving pupil outcomes across the curriculum.
