Nansen Primary School, located on Naseby Road in Birmingham, has undergone significant transformation since its previous inspection, which rated it as inadequate. The recent inspection conducted on 29 and 30 March 2022 resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good across all areas, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school has fostered a positive environment where pupils feel happy, safe, and respected. They express a strong sense of community and enthusiasm for learning, often stating they love attending school and do not want to leave at the end of the day.
Pupils are taught how to stay safe, both in school and outside, and are educated about various forms of bullying and how to address them. The school has implemented effective measures to deal with incidents promptly, ensuring a supportive atmosphere. The behavior of pupils is commendable, with positive attitudes towards learning and adherence to the school’s behavior policy. Relationships among pupils and between staff and pupils are characterized by mutual respect, contributing to a conducive learning environment with minimal disruption during lessons.
Under the leadership of the headteacher, the school has established high expectations and a clear vision for improvement. Staff members are committed to the school’s goals, and there is a shared understanding of the ambition for all pupils. The curriculum is well-structured and ambitious, particularly in core subjects like English, mathematics, and science, where pupils achieve notable success. While other subjects are developing, they require additional time to become as well-integrated into the curriculum. Leaders are actively reviewing the curriculum to address gaps in pupils’ knowledge and are working on assessment systems to better understand pupils’ abilities across all subjects.
The teaching of early reading is a notable strength, with a strong emphasis on fostering a love for reading among pupils. Those who struggle with reading receive daily support, leading to remarkable progress. However, some pupils in key stage two are not progressing as expected due to unaddressed barriers in their reading skills. The early years provision is effective, with staff focusing on developing foundational skills and language abilities, ensuring children are well-prepared for their educational journey.
The school effectively utilizes additional funding to support disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs, ensuring their full inclusion in school activities. The dedicated hub for pupils with complex needs provides tailored support, allowing them to progress at their own pace. Attendance has improved, but there are still challenges with some pupils not attending regularly, which affects their learning. Leaders are committed to engaging parents to emphasize the importance of consistent attendance.
Pupils benefit from a wide range of extracurricular activities that enhance their educational experience and understanding of different cultures and values. The school promotes fundamental British values, preparing pupils for future educational stages and life in modern Britain. Staff support for the headteacher and trust leaders is strong, with appreciation for efforts to reduce workload and prioritize well-being.
The trust provides valuable support and challenge, ensuring the school remains focused on its progress and the resources needed to achieve its goals. Safeguarding measures are robust, with effective training for staff to identify and address risks to pupils. Overall, Nansen Primary School has made significant strides in improving its educational offerings and creating a nurturing environment for all pupils.
