Howes Community Primary School, located in Cheylesmore, Coventry, has recently undergone an inspection that highlighted both strengths and areas for improvement. The overall effectiveness of the school is rated as requiring improvement, with the quality of education also falling into the same category. However, the school demonstrates good performance in behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision.
Pupils express pride in their school, feeling safe and supported by the staff. The school promotes values such as friendship, respect, integrity, equality, nurture, and determination, which are well understood by the students. There is a commitment to inclusivity, particularly for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Despite this, the curriculum is not fully developed across all subjects, leading to a lack of high-quality education in several areas.
Behavior among pupils is commendable, with students supporting one another and taking on responsibilities. The school council has successfully advocated for improvements, such as the installation of an outdoor gym to promote fitness. The presence of Roux, the dog mentor, has positively impacted pupils who may struggle with certain aspects of school life, enhancing their confidence and life skills.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, allowing pupils to explore their interests and talents. Feedback from parents and staff is largely positive, indicating a supportive community.
Recent changes within the school have led to improvements in early years education, where children are provided with a strong foundation. Activities are designed to enhance vocabulary and interests, and potential barriers to learning are quickly addressed. A new phonics scheme has been implemented, and while there are minor inconsistencies, pupils generally enjoy learning to read from an early age. Regular assessments help identify those at risk of falling behind, ensuring they receive the necessary support.
The curriculum has been revised in subjects like physical education and mathematics, with clear learning objectives established. However, while progress is evident in core subjects, it has not yet translated into improved outcomes in national assessments. The approach to curriculum development is not consistent across all subjects, particularly in foundation areas where learning objectives are not clearly defined. This has resulted in disjointed learning experiences for some pupils.
Attendance has seen some improvement, but the rate of persistent absenteeism remains a concern, particularly among vulnerable groups. This affects the educational experiences of these pupils, who miss critical learning opportunities.
The school is inclusive, with additional resources for hearing-impaired pupils that foster a nurturing environment. Pupils with special educational needs are well supported and included in all aspects of school life. Opportunities for personal development are abundant, with activities that promote understanding of modern British life and safety.
The staff team exhibits a strong sense of community and pride in their work. Safeguarding measures are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. To improve, the school must focus on developing a well-structured and progressive curriculum across all subjects, addressing the identified deficiencies. Additionally, strategies to support pupils with persistent absenteeism need to be strengthened to enhance overall attendance and engagement in learning.
