Veritas Primary Academy, located in Staffordshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on 18 and 19 October 2023. Under the leadership of headteacher Danielle Conneely, the school is part of the Reach2 Academy Trust, which provides additional oversight and support. The school environment is described as friendly and welcoming, with pupils expressing happiness and a sense of safety. They take pride in their school and demonstrate good attendance and punctuality, which contributes to their overall achievement.
The atmosphere at Veritas Primary Academy is calm and orderly, with staff ensuring that pupils understand and adhere to school rules. The behavior of the pupils is commendable, as they are polite, well-mannered, and engaged in their learning. Play leaders facilitate social interactions during breaks, promoting a sense of community among students. While most pupils report positive relationships, there are occasional conflicts, which staff address effectively, providing support for those needing additional help with behavior.
The school offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, allowing pupils to explore new interests such as archery, cookery, and wheelchair basketball. Physical health is prioritized through various sports activities, and residential trips provide opportunities for skill development in activities like kayaking and abseiling. Language skills are enhanced through practical experiences, such as practicing French at a Parisian market. Leadership and teamwork skills are fostered through roles like school captains and librarians.
The curriculum at Veritas Primary Academy is ambitious and well-structured, with careful planning in most subjects. Teachers present new concepts clearly and regularly assess pupil understanding. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that important facts are learned effectively. In some subjects, the sequence of learning does not always support retention and progression.
The youngest children receive a strong start, with adults collaborating closely with parents to create engaging learning experiences. Reading is a key focus, with initiatives in place to promote a love of literature. The school has recently updated its phonics teaching approach, ensuring that early readers receive ample practice with appropriate materials. However, some staff may need further training to address reading errors promptly, which can hinder progress for some pupils.
Veritas Primary Academy is committed to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), accurately identifying their needs and adapting the curriculum accordingly. The school collaborates effectively with external agencies to provide necessary support, ensuring that these pupils achieve well.
The wider curriculum includes enriching experiences such as trips and environmental initiatives, fostering a sense of responsibility and appreciation for the community. Pupils engage in democratic processes through a pupil parliament and learn about various cultures and religions, promoting respect for diversity.
Staff morale is high, with support systems in place to manage workload and well-being. The governing body is actively involved in monitoring school performance, and parents generally express satisfaction with the education their children receive. The school is addressing concerns regarding drop-off arrangements to enhance the overall experience for families.
Safeguarding measures are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The inspection highlighted areas for improvement, particularly in the logical sequencing of curriculum content and the consistent delivery of the phonics program. The school is encouraged to ensure that all staff are equipped to implement these strategies effectively, thereby enhancing the learning experience for all pupils.
