Old Park Primary School, located in Telford, Shropshire, has been recognized for its overall effectiveness, receiving a Good rating in various aspects including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school fosters a creative and inclusive environment where every pupil is valued as an individual. Pupils express enjoyment in their learning experiences, particularly in music and sports, and they actively participate in group discussions, demonstrating a strong determination to succeed.
The leadership team at Old Park Primary has high expectations for all students, which is reflected in the positive attitudes of the pupils towards their lessons. The school emphasizes the importance of respect and care among students, and there are effective measures in place to address any behavioral issues. The school's approach to bullying is proactive, with pupils feeling confident that staff will address any concerns swiftly.
In terms of curriculum design, leaders have thoughtfully structured the learning journey from early years through to Year 6. Most subjects are well-sequenced, allowing teachers to effectively plan lessons that build on previous knowledge. Regular assessments help ensure that pupils retain what they have learned, contributing to their success in various subjects. However, some subjects have not been organized as effectively, leading to inconsistencies in how knowledge is built over time. This can result in a lack of depth in certain areas of study.
Pupils are engaged in their lessons and work collaboratively, which enhances their learning experience. They exhibit a healthy sense of competition, particularly in mathematics, and produce impressive written work in literacy. The music program is particularly noteworthy, as it not only teaches pupils to play instruments but also fosters resilience and teamwork.
The school has made significant strides in addressing learning gaps that arose during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in literacy and numeracy. Leaders have prioritized ensuring that Year 6 pupils are well-prepared for their transition to secondary school. The focus on reading is evident, with daily reading activities and a strong emphasis on phonics instruction. Staff receive high-quality training to support effective phonics teaching, and interventions are implemented promptly to address any learning gaps.
Old Park Primary is committed to inclusivity, ensuring that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive the support they require. Leaders quickly identify these needs and create clear plans to facilitate effective learning alongside their peers. The school promotes a culture of understanding and tolerance, encouraging pupils to consider the diverse needs of their classmates.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with all staff trained to recognize and respond to potential risks. Pupils are educated on how to keep themselves safe, both in real life and online, and they know whom to approach if they have concerns.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Leaders need to ensure that all subjects have clearly defined learning sequences to enhance knowledge retention. Additionally, monitoring activities should be refined to better identify and address curriculum weaknesses. Overall, Old Park Primary School provides a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, fostering both academic success and personal development.
