Berrybrook Primary School, located in Wolverhampton, continues to be recognized as a good school following its inspection on October 4 and 5, 2022. The school is committed to fostering a safe and enjoyable environment for its pupils, who actively embody the core values of the institution. The BERRY values are deeply ingrained in the school culture, and students express a strong sense of belonging and appreciation for the personal and academic knowledge they acquire. The high expectations set by the school leaders for both behavior and learning are evident throughout the school, with older pupils demonstrating maturity in their interactions with visitors and discussing their school experiences with respect and insight.
Pupils at Berrybrook Primary School are well-informed about various forms of bullying and understand the importance of addressing such issues. They report that bullying is not a concern within the school, and they know whom to approach should any issues arise. The school has implemented a specific approach to help students manage their emotions, which has proven to be effective. Pupils have access to a designated space for when they feel upset, contributing to a comfortable school atmosphere. The initiative known as Well-being Friday is particularly popular among students.
The school encourages pupils to take on various responsibilities, such as serving as librarians, house captains, and anti-bullying ambassadors. The head boy and head girl play a role in selecting and presenting awards for curriculum subjects. Teachers effectively demonstrate to students how their learning is applicable in the real world, which has been positively received by the pupils.
Leaders at Berrybrook Primary School have established an ambitious vision for the curriculum, aiming to equip pupils with the skills necessary to thrive in a diverse and evolving world. This vision is being successfully implemented for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum is clearly outlined, detailing what must be taught and how to assess it across all subjects, including early years education. Teachers are dedicated to helping pupils develop strategies to retain essential curriculum content, although there are some subjects where this approach is less effective, leading to decreased confidence in recalling learned material.
The school places a strong emphasis on vocabulary and language development. Pupils are encouraged to use specific terminology in various subjects, such as physical education and art. This focus on language begins with the youngest learners, and staff are well-trained to engage with children effectively, enhancing their vocabulary and confidence in using language in diverse contexts. The inclusion team ensures that pupils' needs are promptly identified and addressed.
Pupils demonstrate a remarkable ability to retain and apply their learning over time, with strengths evident in subjects like physical education and art. The quality of artwork produced by students is exceptional, showcasing their knowledge and techniques developed throughout the curriculum. Leaders are committed to ensuring that every pupil learns to read, with robust systems in place for phonics instruction and targeted support for those who may struggle. Initiatives like the reading van and reading suitcases foster a love for reading among students.
Staff at Berrybrook Primary School express satisfaction with their work environment and appreciate the training they receive. Subject leaders are ensuring that staff across key stages one and two are equipped with the necessary knowledge and resources to teach effectively. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including trips and clubs, which enrich the pupils' educational experience and prepare them for future endeavors.
The arrangements for safeguarding at the school are effective, with leaders conducting necessary checks to ensure staff safety. Staff are trained to recognize and report any concerns regarding pupil welfare, and the school collaborates with various agencies to maintain a safe environment. The curriculum also educates pupils on safety in different situations, with older students demonstrating an understanding of legal matters and potential risks.
While the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement, particularly in ensuring that teaching strategies in certain subjects enable pupils to retain important curriculum content more effectively. Leaders are encouraged to continue embedding successful recall strategies to enhance pupils' depth of understanding across the curriculum. Overall, Berrybrook Primary School is a thriving educational institution that prioritizes the well-being and academic success of its pupils.
