Radford Primary Academy, located in Coventry, West Midlands, underwent an inspection on 18 and 19 October 2022, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has made significant progress since its previous inspection, where it was rated as requiring improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good.
The school fosters an inclusive environment where pupils feel welcomed and valued. Students express enjoyment in attending school and appreciate the support they receive from staff in their learning. The school prioritizes pastoral support, ensuring that pupils have access to help when needed. Pupils report feeling safe and indicate that instances of bullying are rare, with teachers addressing any issues promptly.
Leaders at Radford Primary Academy maintain high expectations for all pupils and emphasize the importance of personal development. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including netball, sewing, and reading clubs, which contribute to a well-rounded educational experience. The core values of unity, respect, and care are embedded in the school culture and curriculum, promoting positive behavior among pupils. The overall atmosphere is calm and conducive to learning, although there are occasional instances of poor behavior that are not consistently managed by all staff.
The curriculum has been revised to be ambitious and well-structured, with clear learning objectives established from the early years onward. This thoughtful approach prepares pupils effectively for their future educational steps. Early years provision is particularly strong, with children demonstrating happiness and cooperation in their learning activities. Staff utilize established routines to support children's development, ensuring they are ready for the next stage of their education.
Reading is a priority at the school, with staff receiving training to deliver phonics instruction effectively. Pupils are encouraged to engage with reading materials, and they enjoy selecting books from the library. The curriculum is organized thematically, allowing pupils to connect their learning across subjects, which enhances their understanding and vocabulary.
Despite the strengths, there are areas for improvement. Some teachers do not consistently present subject matter clearly or adapt lessons to meet the diverse needs of all pupils, leading to varied learning experiences. Additionally, while most teachers use assessment effectively, there are concerns regarding handwriting development among younger pupils and fluency in older pupils. Leaders are encouraged to accelerate plans to enhance handwriting instruction and ensure that all staff consistently apply the behavior policy.
The school has established effective safeguarding arrangements, creating a positive culture around pupil safety. Staff are well-trained and responsive to concerns, ensuring that pupils learn how to keep themselves safe, including online safety.
In summary, Radford Primary Academy has made commendable strides in improving its educational offerings and fostering a supportive environment for its pupils. The leadership team is focused on continuous improvement, and while there are areas that require attention, the overall effectiveness of the school is rated as good. The commitment to high standards and the well-being of pupils is evident throughout the school community.
