Pegasus Primary School in Castle Vale, Birmingham, has shown significant improvement since its previous inspection, moving from a grade of Requires Improvement to Good across all areas of evaluation. The inspection, conducted in May and June 2021, highlighted the school's effective leadership and management, which have fostered a positive learning environment where pupils are engaged and enthusiastic about their education. The curriculum is well-structured and emphasizes literacy and numeracy from the early years, ensuring that children develop essential skills from the outset. Daily phonics teaching is effective, enabling pupils to learn to read quickly and enjoyably.
The school places a strong emphasis on reading, with a vibrant library that encourages pupils to explore a diverse range of high-quality books. This focus on literacy is complemented by a well-planned curriculum that builds on prior knowledge and allows for frequent revisiting of concepts, which helps reinforce learning. Teachers regularly assess pupils' understanding through various activities, ensuring that lessons are adapted to meet the needs of all learners. The positive attitudes towards learning observed among pupils contribute to a low incidence of disruption in classrooms.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive appropriate support, thanks to the effective coordination by the special educational needs coordinator. The school is committed to inclusivity, ensuring that all pupils are fully engaged in lessons and receive tailored assistance when necessary. The school’s values promote respect, diversity, and anti-discrimination, fostering an environment where pupils can discuss moral and ethical issues confidently.
Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the school has continued to provide engaging experiences for pupils, such as careers days and virtual tours, which have enriched their learning. However, the pandemic has limited opportunities for pupils to engage with the wider community, which is an area identified for improvement. Leaders are encouraged to facilitate more community involvement to enhance pupils' understanding of the world around them.
While the school has made strides in improving communication with parents, some still hold negative perceptions based on past experiences. Ongoing efforts to build positive relationships with parents are essential for fostering a supportive school community. Additionally, the school needs to enhance pupils' understanding of British values, as this knowledge is currently limited.
Overall, Pegasus Primary School has made commendable progress in providing a high-quality education for its pupils. The dedication of the leadership team, staff, and the trust has resulted in a positive learning environment where pupils thrive academically and socially. The school is well-positioned to continue its trajectory of improvement, with a clear focus on enhancing community engagement and ensuring that all pupils are well-prepared for life in modern Britain. The commitment to safeguarding is evident, with effective measures in place to protect pupils and support their well-being. The school’s future plans include resuming extracurricular activities and community engagement once restrictions are lifted, which will further enrich the educational experience for all pupils.
