St George’s Church of England Primary School in Birmingham has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on May 10 and 11, 2022. The school is characterized by a strong Christian ethos that influences all aspects of school life, fostering a safe and caring environment where pupils feel happy and respected. The diverse community is embraced, and pupils demonstrate respect for various faiths and cultures. Behaviour among pupils is commendable, with quick responses to instructions and adherence to school rules, resulting in minimal disruption during lessons. Instances of bullying are rare, and when they occur, they are addressed promptly by staff.
The leadership team has established high expectations for all pupils, promoting a culture of enthusiasm for learning. Pupils are encouraged to engage in exciting educational experiences, such as trips that enhance their learning. The school emphasizes the development of empathy and respect through community involvement, including contributions to food banks and charity fundraising. Pupils actively participate in councils that allow them to voice their opinions and contribute to decision-making processes.
The curriculum is well-designed to meet the needs of pupils, with a logical progression of knowledge and skills. Support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is effectively planned and implemented, ensuring they can access the full curriculum and make strong progress. The quality of pupils' work, particularly in writing, is high, with teachers providing structured guidance and opportunities for skill development. However, there is a need for more opportunities for pupils to apply their writing skills across different subjects.
Teachers provide timely feedback during lessons, helping pupils to correct mistakes and reinforce prior learning. Reading is prioritized, with a well-resourced library and a new phonics program that positively impacts pupils' reading and writing skills. While most pupils read daily, some require additional support to develop their spoken language skills, and staff are encouraged to enhance their strategies in this area.
Leadership at the school is strong, with the executive headteacher and other leaders providing effective support and training for staff. Teachers report a collaborative and enjoyable planning environment, contributing to a positive school culture. The commitment to equality and diversity is evident, with pupils engaging in extracurricular activities that foster personal development.
Despite the overall positive findings, there are areas for improvement. Pupils need more opportunities to engage in extended writing tasks across the curriculum to enhance their writing skills. Additionally, while support for reading is effective, there is a need for further training for staff to better assist pupils in developing their spoken language. New middle leaders require support to develop their roles effectively, ensuring a consistent approach to curriculum development across subjects. Communication with parents also needs to be strengthened, as some parents feel uninformed about leadership changes and their children's progress.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with well-trained staff who are vigilant in identifying signs of vulnerability. The school has established strong connections with families, providing support during challenging times, such as the pandemic. Overall, St George’s Church of England Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive community for its pupils.
