Hollyfield Primary School, located in Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 22 and 23, 2022. The leadership team at Hollyfield is dedicated to fostering an environment where all pupils can achieve their best. The school is characterized by a positive atmosphere where pupils feel safe and enjoy attending. However, there are concerns regarding attendance, as some pupils do not attend regularly or arrive on time, which disrupts their learning and overall achievement.
The curriculum at Hollyfield is ambitious and well-structured, with a strong emphasis on reading. Leaders have implemented effective teaching strategies that ensure pupils develop a love for reading. Parents express satisfaction with the quality of education their children receive, highlighting the school's commitment to academic excellence. The school also offers a variety of trips and extracurricular activities that enrich the pupils' learning experiences. These include visits to farms and museums, as well as opportunities for older pupils to participate in residential trips and clubs such as choir, sports, and dance.
In the classroom, pupils engage positively with their learning. They demonstrate kindness and respect towards one another, contributing to a supportive social environment. Incidents of bullying are rare and are promptly addressed by staff, who are trusted by pupils to resolve any issues. The school promotes a culture of respect and understanding, preparing pupils for life in a diverse society.
Hollyfield Primary School has established high expectations for its pupils through a well-planned curriculum. Teachers are well-trained and utilize effective methods to ensure that pupils acquire the necessary knowledge and vocabulary for success. Regular assessments help teachers monitor progress and reinforce prior learning, enabling pupils to meet these high expectations.
In the early years, children adapt well to school routines, benefiting from structured learning that builds on their existing knowledge. Staff are attentive to the needs of children requiring additional support, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance to thrive. However, there are instances where the expectations for independent work in the wider curriculum are not clearly communicated, leading to confusion among some children.
Reading is a priority at Hollyfield, with a carefully designed reading curriculum and well-trained staff. Phonics instruction is effective, and resources are aligned with the sounds pupils are learning. This approach helps pupils practice their reading skills effectively. Those who struggle with reading are quickly identified and supported to catch up, resulting in strong overall achievement in reading.
The school is proactive in identifying pupils who need extra help, ensuring that all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, have access to the same curriculum and support. Pupils are encouraged to engage in community service and take on leadership roles, fostering a sense of responsibility and pride in their contributions.
Hollyfield Primary School promotes understanding of democracy and respect for different cultures and faiths. Pupils learn about various religions and participate in activities that celebrate diversity, preparing them for life in modern Britain. The leadership team conducts regular evaluations of the school's performance and collaborates effectively with governors to implement improvements.
Despite the school's strengths, there are areas for growth. Attendance and punctuality need to be closely monitored, and staff should enhance clarity in the early years' curriculum. Additionally, robust assessment systems for foundation subjects are necessary to ensure that all pupils are making progress across the curriculum. Overall, Hollyfield Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a commitment to ongoing improvement.
