Fieldhead Primary Academy, located in Birstall, Batley, West Yorkshire, underwent an inspection on 24 and 25 October 2023, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school, led by Principal Donna Popek and part of the Focus Academy Trust, has demonstrated a commitment to providing a nurturing and inclusive environment for its pupils. The inspection highlighted the school's strong community ethos, where staff and pupils embody the vision of being a great school at the heart of the community.
Pupils at Fieldhead Primary Academy feel valued and supported, with adults actively listening to their concerns. The school fosters a sense of pride among students, who take on various leadership roles and contribute positively to the school environment. High expectations are set for all pupils, and the school provides effective support to ensure that every child, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, achieves well.
The quality of education is rated as good, with an ambitious curriculum in place. Most subjects have clear plans outlining the knowledge and skills pupils are expected to acquire. However, the school acknowledges that some subjects require further development to ensure that essential learning is clearly defined. Reading is prioritized, with a structured approach to phonics teaching that supports early readers effectively. The school promotes a love of reading through various initiatives, including events for parents to engage with their children's literacy development.
Pupils exhibit positive attitudes towards learning and demonstrate good behavior both in lessons and around the school. The school has established clear expectations for behavior, which are consistently enforced by staff, resulting in minimal disruption to learning. Relationships between staff and pupils are characterized by warmth and respect, contributing to a positive learning atmosphere.
Fieldhead Primary Academy places a strong emphasis on attendance and punctuality, implementing effective procedures to support families facing challenges in these areas. The school also excels in promoting personal development, providing numerous opportunities for pupils to engage with their local community through activities such as tree planting and litter picking. This involvement fosters a sense of responsibility and understanding of the importance of community engagement.
Trustees and governors possess a thorough understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement. They have established robust procedures to challenge and support the school effectively. The safeguarding arrangements are deemed effective, ensuring that pupils are safe and well cared for.
While the school has many strengths, it recognizes the need to refine curriculum plans in certain subjects to ensure that all key knowledge is clearly defined. This ongoing development will help maintain the high standards of education that Fieldhead Primary Academy strives to achieve. Overall, the school provides a supportive and enriching environment where pupils can thrive academically and personally, preparing them well for their future endeavors.
