St Peters CofE Primary School, located in Harborne, Birmingham, has been recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on October 10 and 11, 2023. The school demonstrates numerous strengths, particularly in its high expectations for behavior and learning, which pupils respond to positively. The curriculum is well-organized, allowing lessons to flow smoothly and enabling pupils to achieve significant academic success. In core subjects like English and mathematics, pupils exhibit strong standards and are well-prepared for their transition to secondary education.
Beyond classroom learning, the school encourages pupils to engage in trips and community service, fostering a sense of responsibility and initiative. From Nursery through Year 6, there is a palpable sense of pride among pupils, evident in the quality of their work displays and the positive attitudes of staff and leaders. Relationships within the school are characterized by care and support, reflecting the institution's Christian values. Pupils interact well with one another, demonstrating empathy and understanding, while instances of bullying are rare. The school has effective routines in place to ensure pupil safety and promote good behavior.
Both pupils and parents appreciate being part of the school community, often expressing satisfaction with the school’s leadership and inclusivity. The school has made notable improvements since its last inspection, particularly in the teaching of early reading, which has become even more robust. Staff have received recent training, and new resources have been introduced to enhance phonics instruction. Daily phonics lessons are provided, and additional support is available for pupils who require it, continuing into Key Stage 2 as needed. By Year 6, pupils have developed a commendable knowledge of various authors.
The school’s commitment to staff training and development is evident across subjects, including art and design, where specialized training has led to significant improvements in the curriculum. The learning progression from early years to Year 6 is coherent, allowing pupils to build confidence and competence in their abilities. However, the sequencing of the curriculum in some foundation subjects requires further development, and leaders are aware of this, with plans in place for future improvements.
St Peters CofE Primary also emphasizes outdoor learning and purposeful activities that benefit both mind and body. Pupils participate in various trips, including residential stays, which enrich their educational experience. The recent introduction of a personal, social, health, and economic education program aims to cultivate a positive outlook among pupils, encouraging them to think about others and prioritize safety.
Attendance rates are high, and the school collaborates with parents and external services to address any attendance issues. The provision for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is strong, with a well-trained SEND team ensuring that all pupils can access the curriculum and participate fully in school life.
Staff feel valued, as their views and workloads are considered in decision-making processes. Parents express high levels of satisfaction with the school’s engagement with the community and the care provided for their children. The school’s safety arrangements are well-managed, contributing to a respectful and secure environment for learning and play.
The inspection concluded that while the school is performing well, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the curriculum design of some foundation subjects and the implementation of the new PSHE curriculum. Overall, St Peters CofE Primary School continues to provide a good quality education, with a strong foundation for future development.
