Mesty Croft Primary School, located in Wednesbury, West Midlands, received a positive inspection report following its evaluation on February 8 and 9, 2023. The school was rated as good in all areas, including overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The inspection highlighted the welcoming environment fostered by both staff and pupils, emphasizing the importance placed on mental health and well-being. Pupils feel safe and secure, knowing they can seek help from trusted adults or the school counsellor if needed.
The report noted that pupils exhibit good behaviour and a strong desire to learn. They are taught the importance of treating others with respect and are educated about different types of bullying, which helps them distinguish between bullying and isolated incidents. Staff are proactive in addressing any issues that arise, ensuring a supportive atmosphere.
The leadership team, including governors and trust leaders, is dedicated to providing the best for pupils. They have developed an engaging curriculum aligned with the school motto of Believe and Achieve. While the curriculum is ambitious and well-received in many subjects, there are a few areas where it is less effective. Attendance is a concern, as a number of pupils are frequently absent, which impacts their learning and achievement.
Since joining the Perry Hall Multi-Academy Trust, the school has experienced a renewed vision and direction. Clear accountability measures are in place, and leaders appreciate the support from the trust, including access to training and termly reviews. The curriculum is well-structured from nursery to Year 6, with a focus on building knowledge and skills progressively. Pupils excel in subjects like English and mathematics, becoming increasingly confident in their abilities.
Reading is prioritized, with daily opportunities for pupils to engage with literature. Early phonics instruction begins in nursery, and all staff are trained to support reading development. Pupils are matched with books that suit their reading levels, and additional support is provided for those who struggle.
The school effectively supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance to access the curriculum alongside their peers. The SEND leader collaborates with external agencies to provide specialized support.
Pupils across all year groups demonstrate positive behaviour and a willingness to learn. They develop social skills through various responsibilities, such as being school councillors or house captains. The school emphasizes personal development through popular after-school clubs and enriching experiences that broaden pupils' understanding of different cultures and religions.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff trained to identify and respond to potential risks. Pupils are educated on personal safety, including online safety, ensuring they are well-informed about how to protect themselves.
Despite the overall positive evaluation, the report identified areas for improvement. Some foundation subjects lack effective planning and sequencing, leading to gaps in pupils' knowledge. Leaders are encouraged to enhance the curriculum in these areas. Additionally, the school must address the issue of persistent absenteeism, working with parents to emphasize the importance of regular attendance.
Overall, Mesty Croft Primary School is a supportive and effective learning environment where pupils thrive academically and socially, with a strong commitment to their well-being and development.
