Brooksward School, located in Milton Keynes, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 8 and 9, 2023. The school prides itself on inclusivity, fostering a strong sense of pride among pupils who embody the values of excellence, citizenship, and innovation. The supportive environment created by the staff encourages pupils to follow guidance, which aids their academic and personal development. This nurturing atmosphere ensures that all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, can integrate positively into school life.
The school emphasizes the holistic development of its pupils, preparing them for life beyond primary education. Leadership opportunities, such as participation in the student council and roles as playground leaders and reading buddies, help students develop essential skills. The behavior of pupils is commendable, with a high level of motivation to succeed. Social interactions are characterized by warmth and kindness, and the school has effectively addressed bullying, with incidents being rare. Pupils feel secure knowing that school leaders take bullying seriously and act promptly when necessary.
Leaders at Brooksward School maintain high expectations for all pupils, tailoring the curriculum to accommodate diverse starting points and experiences. The provision for pupils with special educational needs is robust, with knowledgeable staff ensuring appropriate support. The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, allowing pupils to build knowledge progressively. In foundational subjects, while leaders have clear goals, there is a need for further refinement in the sequencing of knowledge to enhance learning consistency across the curriculum.
Reading is a priority, with children beginning their phonics education in Reception. Staff are well-trained in phonics instruction, regularly assessing pupils' understanding and providing timely interventions to support their progress. Teachers effectively use assessments in other subjects to identify and address gaps in knowledge, contributing to positive outcomes at the end of key stages.
Classrooms at Brooksward are calm and conducive to learning, with pupils demonstrating motivation and minimal disruption. The school's behavior management strategies are consistently applied, helping pupils understand and adhere to high behavioral expectations. A rich array of extracurricular clubs is available, promoting engagement among all pupils, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds and those with special educational needs. Events celebrating cultural diversity further enhance the school community's inclusivity.
Governance at Brooksward School is effective, with leaders and governors working collaboratively to create a supportive environment for both staff and pupils. The well-being of staff is prioritized, contributing to a positive workplace culture. Safeguarding measures are robust, with a strong culture of safety embedded within the school. Staff are well-trained to recognize and respond to safeguarding concerns, ensuring that pupils receive the necessary support.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement, particularly in refining the curriculum in a few foundation subjects to ensure consistent learning outcomes. Leaders are aware of these areas and are committed to enhancing the curriculum further. Overall, Brooksward School continues to provide a good educational experience, fostering a positive and inclusive environment for all its pupils.
