Radford Primary School Academy, located in Nottingham, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 17 and 18, 2023. The school is characterized by a welcoming environment where pupils feel valued and respected. The ethos of showing respect for everyone and everything is deeply ingrained in the school culture. Pupils exhibit curiosity and enthusiasm for learning, particularly in celebrating diverse cultures within the school community. They express confidence in the support provided by staff, who are dedicated to their well-being and safety. The school has established a positive atmosphere where bullying is rare, and any issues are promptly addressed by adults.
The curriculum at Radford Academy is ambitious and designed to cater to the needs of every child. Older pupils have noted that their teachers effectively prepare them for future educational stages. Reading is emphasized as a crucial skill, and pupils enjoy access to a new library and engaging storytelling from their teachers. The school provides high-quality support for pupils who speak English as an additional language, ensuring that all students receive the assistance they need to thrive academically.
Pupils at Radford Academy are encouraged to be active citizens, participating in projects and campaigns that foster a sense of community and social responsibility. They learn the importance of giving back and understand their potential to make a positive impact on society. The school’s leadership and staff demonstrate a strong commitment to the academic and personal development of all pupils. They have successfully integrated a knowledge-rich curriculum that promotes character development and raises aspirations among students.
Subject leaders have established high learning goals, taking into account the starting points and individual learning needs of pupils. Teachers effectively assess pupils' learning and address any gaps in knowledge promptly. The curriculum is structured to allow pupils to build knowledge progressively, particularly in mathematics, where they have ample opportunities to practice and apply their skills. However, there are instances in history where tasks may not focus sharply on essential subject knowledge, indicating an area for improvement.
The school prioritizes reading from the early years, with a consistent phonics program in place. Staff receive regular training to ensure effective phonics instruction, and assessment is used to match reading materials to pupils' abilities. Early years children benefit from strong relationships with staff, who provide tailored support to develop language and communication skills.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive high-quality provision, with clear targets set for their progress. The school fosters a respectful environment where pupils learn to listen and behave appropriately. Personal development is a notable strength, with a rich curriculum that broadens pupils' horizons and enhances their learning experiences. Pupils articulate how these experiences contribute to their personal growth.
The safeguarding arrangements at Radford Academy are effective, with leaders ensuring that staff are well-trained and proactive in addressing concerns. Pupils learn about safety through a comprehensive curriculum that covers various aspects, including online safety and healthy relationships. The school community is well-supported by trust leaders and governors, who are knowledgeable about the school and its needs.
While the school excels in many areas, there is a need for improvement in ensuring that written tasks in foundation subjects are focused on developing essential subject knowledge. This will help secure pupils' core knowledge and enhance their understanding. Overall, Radford Primary School Academy continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational environment for its pupils.
