Kingsbury Primary School, located in Tamworth, Staffordshire, was inspected on June 20 and 21, 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as requiring improvement, with specific areas such as the quality of education and leadership and management also receiving the same rating. However, the school demonstrated good performance in behavior and attitudes, personal development, and early years provision.
Pupils at Kingsbury Primary School report feeling happy and safe in an inclusive environment. They exhibit good manners and respect towards one another and their teachers. Staff maintain high expectations, and pupils generally respond positively to these expectations. The school fosters a caring atmosphere where pupils know whom to approach with any concerns. The curriculum offers a broad range of subjects, and while pupils are engaged and focused during lessons, there are concerns regarding the consistency of educational quality. Leaders have not effectively monitored the curriculum's implementation, leading to instances where pupils are advanced to new topics before they are adequately prepared.
The school provides numerous leadership opportunities for pupils, including roles such as ecocounsellors and school counsellors, which encourage kindness and respect. Older pupils often assist younger ones as learning leaders, and fundraising activities help instill a sense of responsibility and community involvement. The early years provision is particularly strong, with an ambitious curriculum that promotes independence and engagement in activities aligned with pupils' interests.
Reading is a priority at Kingsbury Primary School, with children learning to read from their first year. Most pupils enjoy reading and actively participate in storytime, where they can choose the books to be read. The selection of reading materials is thoughtfully curated to include diverse topics, including those related to protected characteristics. Support is provided for pupils who struggle with reading, ensuring they develop fluency and confidence.
The school is committed to inclusivity, particularly for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. These pupils are integrated into all aspects of school life and receive tailored support to help them thrive. The staff is equipped with the necessary information to adapt lessons to meet the diverse needs of all learners.
Behavior throughout the school is commendable, with pupils demonstrating kindness and cooperation during social interactions. The school implements programs to help pupils manage their emotions and develop self-regulation skills. Personal development is enhanced through various activities, including assemblies and discussions on important topics such as healthy relationships and technology use.
Despite the positive aspects, the school faces challenges in curriculum oversight and implementation. Leaders need to establish a more strategic approach to monitor the curriculum's effectiveness and ensure that all pupils are adequately prepared for new learning. There is a need for staff to utilize assessment more effectively to identify and address gaps in knowledge and understanding.
The safeguarding arrangements at Kingsbury Primary School are effective, with thorough recruitment checks and a culture of vigilance among staff. Pupils are educated about safety, particularly regarding online interactions, and they feel confident reporting any issues.
In summary, while Kingsbury Primary School has strengths in pupil well-being, behavior, and early years provision, it requires improvement in the quality of education and leadership oversight. Addressing these areas will be crucial for enhancing the overall educational experience and outcomes for all pupils.