Following the short inspection of Warden Park Primary Academy on June 12, 2019, it has been confirmed that the school continues to maintain a good standard of education. The leadership team, including the headteacher and trustees, demonstrates a strong commitment to providing high-quality education, which is supported by staff, parents, and carers. The school has successfully addressed previous areas for improvement and has made significant progress in raising standards. Staff morale is high, and there is a strong sense of teamwork, with teachers valuing the professional development opportunities provided.
The school’s self-evaluation is accurate, and governors play an essential role in supporting and challenging school leaders. They are knowledgeable and ensure they receive appropriate training. The recent opening of a nursery has been beneficial, providing children with a solid foundation for their education. Pupils are settled and express that they feel cared for in a calm and well-structured environment. The school showcases pupils' work through impressive displays, enhancing the learning atmosphere.
Parents have expressed overwhelming satisfaction with their children's progress and experiences at the school. The school has made notable improvements in mathematics, with rising standards in line with national averages. However, there is recognition that the proportion of pupils achieving higher standards still requires attention. The school has implemented effective strategies to monitor behavior, resulting in exemplary conduct among pupils. The number of fixed-term exclusions has decreased, and preventative measures are in place for those needing additional support.
The quality of work in English and mathematics is high, with close monitoring by school leaders. However, there is a need for more rigorous oversight in the wider curriculum, as standards in subjects like history and geography are more variable. Safeguarding measures are effective, with all stakeholders feeling safe and secure. The leadership team ensures that safeguarding policies are up to date and that staff receive regular training.
The inspection focused on the teaching of reading and writing, the achievement of disadvantaged pupils, and the provision for the most able pupils. The school prioritizes reading and writing, with a clear emphasis on vocabulary development. Pupils engage in various writing activities and demonstrate pride in their work. Disadvantaged pupils are well-supported and make good progress, benefiting from effective interventions.
While the curriculum is broad and includes enriching experiences, there are areas for improvement in the assessment and teaching of subjects outside English and mathematics. Teachers need to build on pupils' prior knowledge more effectively and provide greater challenge for the most able pupils. The school is encouraged to ensure that subject leaders actively support and monitor the planning and teaching of the wider curriculum to enhance overall standards.
In summary, Warden Park Primary Academy is a good school with effective leadership, a supportive community, and a commitment to continuous improvement. The school has made significant strides in various areas, although there are still opportunities for further development, particularly in the wider curriculum and in challenging the most able pupils.
