Woodhouse Primary Academy is a larger than average primary school located in Quinton, Birmingham. The school has been recognized as a good institution, maintaining this status since its last inspection in July 2015. The recent inspection, conducted from December 3 to 4, 2019, reaffirmed its good standing. The school is characterized by its inclusive environment, where the well-being of every child is prioritized alongside their academic achievements. Parents have expressed satisfaction with the support provided to children with special educational needs and disabilities, highlighting the school's commitment to inclusivity.
Pupils at Woodhouse Primary Academy take pride in their school and their accomplishments. They engage enthusiastically in various subjects, particularly enjoying music, outdoor activities, and art. The curriculum is designed to ensure that students reach high standards in reading, writing, and mathematics by the time they leave the school. Many students participate in extracurricular clubs, such as Zumba and dance, which promote healthy lifestyles and physical fitness. The school fosters a safe and caring atmosphere, with staff maintaining high expectations for behavior. Pupils report that bullying is rare and that they feel responsible for treating one another with respect.
The leadership at Woodhouse Primary Academy has been instrumental in driving improvements since the last inspection. New leadership has revitalized the school culture, fostering a positive attitude among staff and students alike. The ambitious curriculum is tailored to meet the needs of all pupils, including those who are disadvantaged or have special educational needs. Curriculum leaders have clearly defined the knowledge and skills that students should acquire, ensuring a coherent progression in learning across subjects.
However, there are areas for improvement. The curriculum planning does not consistently encompass early years education, leading to gaps in understanding among some curriculum leaders regarding what is taught in Reception. This lack of clarity can hinder the transition for children moving into Year 1. Leaders are aware of this issue and are actively working to address it, particularly in mathematics, where efforts are being made to enhance the confidence of Reception children in using mathematical tools.
In terms of reading, the school places a high priority on developing literacy skills. Daily read-aloud sessions and phonics lessons are integral to the curriculum. While most pupils become fluent readers by the end of Key Stage 1, some children, particularly in Reception and Year 1, do not receive sufficiently tailored support to meet their individual needs. This can result in difficulties for a small number of students in achieving reading fluency quickly.
The school also emphasizes the importance of preparing pupils to be responsible citizens. Special sessions are organized to promote understanding of diverse beliefs and cultures, and even young children are encouraged to discuss their feelings and respect for others. Safeguarding measures are effective, with all staff trained to recognize and respond to concerns regarding pupil safety and welfare.
Overall, Woodhouse Primary Academy continues to provide a good education, with a strong focus on inclusivity and student well-being. The leadership is committed to ongoing improvement, particularly in early years education and reading support, ensuring that all pupils have the opportunity to succeed.
