Corngreaves Academy, located in Cradley Heath, West Midlands, has recently undergone an inspection on February 8 and 9, 2023, and has been rated as good overall. The school has demonstrated strong performance across various areas, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management, all of which have also been rated as good. Notably, the early years provision has been recognized as outstanding. This inspection marks the first evaluation of the school under section five of the Education Act 2005 since it converted to an academy in June 2013.
Pupils at Corngreaves Academy express enjoyment in their school experience, feeling a sense of belonging and community. The school’s motto, together we learn to succeed, is embraced by both pupils and staff. Leaders maintain high expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that they are well-prepared for future educational stages. The supportive environment fosters collaboration among pupils, who help each other in both learning and behavior, contributing to a respectful and polite atmosphere that minimizes disruptions to learning.
The school prioritizes the emotional well-being of its pupils, with adults regularly checking in on their feelings and providing a safe space for discussions about worries. Effective measures are in place to address bullying, which contributes to a sense of safety among students. Leaders also focus on character development, encouraging resilience and the understanding that mistakes are part of the learning process. Pupils have opportunities to take on leadership roles, such as safeguarding champions and anti-bullying ambassadors, which further enhances their personal growth.
Corngreaves Academy offers a broad and balanced curriculum, with a clear focus on essential knowledge that pupils are expected to learn. The curriculum is structured to build understanding over time, as seen in subjects like music and design technology, where pupils progressively develop their skills. Teachers employ effective strategies to present new information in manageable steps, ensuring that pupils grasp key concepts. Regular assessments help identify areas where pupils may need additional support, although some foundation subjects are still in the process of refining their assessment methods.
Reading is a central focus of the curriculum, with phonics instruction beginning as soon as children start school. Leaders ensure that reading materials align with the phonics knowledge pupils acquire, and additional support is provided to those who fall behind. This approach has resulted in pupils developing the necessary skills to read fluently.
The early years provision is characterized by a rich and stimulating curriculum that promotes curiosity and independence among children. Staff establish clear routines and high expectations, focusing on vocabulary development and meaningful learning activities. As a result, children are exceptionally well-prepared for their transition to Year 1.
Leaders aim for pupils to leave Corngreaves Academy as well-rounded individuals, equipped with an understanding of their rights and responsibilities. Through assemblies, clubs, and various activities, pupils learn about diversity and respect for others' views. The school fosters a culture of mutual support among staff, who feel valued and proud to work there.
The safeguarding arrangements at Corngreaves Academy are effective, with a strong emphasis on keeping pupils safe. Staff receive regular training and are vigilant in their safeguarding duties, ensuring that any concerns are addressed promptly. Overall, while the school excels in many areas, there is a need to further develop assessment systems in a few foundation subjects to enhance the tracking of pupils' learning progress.
