Begbrook Primary Academy, located in Stapleton, Bristol, underwent an inspection on September 26 and 27, 2023, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school is led by headteacher Vicky Counsell and is part of the Cabot Learning Federation, which involves shared responsibilities among various leaders within the trust. The trust is overseen by CEO Steve Taylor and a board of trustees chaired by Professor Paul Olomolaiye.
Pupils at Begbrook Primary Academy express pride in their school and appreciate the recent improvements made. The school emphasizes the importance of pupil involvement in decision-making through initiatives like the pupil voice group. High expectations for behavior are evident, with students demonstrating respect towards adults and peers. The school promotes a culture of kindness, safety, and respect, leading to a positive atmosphere where bullying incidents are rare and effectively managed when they occur.
The curriculum at Begbrook Primary Academy has undergone significant enhancements, resulting in a rich and ambitious educational experience for all students. Reading is prioritized, with a diverse selection of books that fosters a love for reading among pupils. From an early age, students are taught phonics to develop their reading fluency, and teachers provide support to those who may struggle. This focus on reading extends into key stage two, where communication and language skills are further developed.
In mathematics, the curriculum is designed to build knowledge over time. However, there are instances where the teaching methods do not align with the school's ambitious goals, leading to some confusion among pupils regarding their learning. This inconsistency can hinder the development of knowledge and skills for certain students.
The wider curriculum is ambitious, with clear objectives for the knowledge pupils are expected to acquire. Students show enthusiasm for various subjects, including geography, where they engage in discussions about volcanic eruptions and cultural diversity. Despite this, some subjects lack effective assessment systems to gauge pupil retention of knowledge, which can result in gaps in understanding.
In the early years, children make a strong start, benefiting from positive relationships with adults who support their emotional and behavioral development. Routines are established to foster independence, and activities are thoughtfully planned to enhance listening and speaking skills. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive appropriate support, ensuring they can learn alongside their peers.
The governance of the school is robust, with trustees and the academy council holding the school accountable. They gather information from various sources to challenge the school effectively. Staff members appreciate the trust's focus on their well-being and the professional development opportunities provided.
The school's safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. However, there are areas identified for improvement. The implementation of the curriculum in some subjects does not meet the intended standards, and assessment practices need to be refined to ensure that pupils build their knowledge effectively. The school is encouraged to evaluate its curriculum with greater precision to enhance the depth of understanding among students over time.
Overall, Begbrook Primary Academy demonstrates a commitment to providing a quality education, fostering a positive school culture, and supporting the diverse needs of its pupils. The school is well-regarded by its community, and with continued focus on curriculum implementation and assessment, it has the potential to further enhance its educational offerings.
