Firs Primary School is an inclusive and welcoming institution located in Derby, Derbyshire. The school emphasizes its core values, known as the 'Firsy five', which guide the behavior and attitudes of both staff and pupils. The environment is designed to ensure that all students, including those new to the country, feel safe and supported. The school provides effective assistance for pupils who may need additional help, and students express positive feelings about the support they receive, particularly from a designated area known as 'The Orchard'.
Pupils at Firs Primary School demonstrate a clear understanding of the school's rules and values, leading to commendable behavior and kindness towards one another. They are aware of the various forms of bullying and report that such incidents are rare, with staff addressing any issues promptly. The leadership team is committed to ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, achieve their potential. Students show enthusiasm for their lessons and a desire to learn, with effective support in place for those who speak English as an additional language.
The curriculum at Firs Primary School is well-structured, beginning in the early years and designed to prepare children for future learning. The educational experiences provided are sequential and build upon prior knowledge, although there are instances where staff do not consistently check pupils' understanding. This can lead to gaps in knowledge for some students. Nevertheless, pupils enjoy their learning experiences and take pride in acquiring new skills. The school fosters a strong reading culture, with a consistent phonics teaching approach that helps students read fluently. Pupils are motivated by reading awards and enjoy access to a well-stocked library.
The school has established robust systems for supporting pupils with special educational needs, ensuring that individual learning plans are effectively implemented. Pupils appreciate their time at school, forming friendships and engaging in various activities during playtime. While attendance has shown signs of improvement, the number of pupils who are frequently absent remains a concern, and leaders are aware of the need for continued efforts in this area.
Firs Primary School promotes spiritual, moral, social, and cultural understanding, encouraging respect for diversity. Pupils learn about different cultures and faiths, although some knowledge remains fragile. The school also prepares students for future challenges by teaching them essential life skills, such as financial management and online safety.
Staff at the school not only support pupils but also their families, offering workshops and assistance with various needs. The leadership team, including governors and trustees, provides balanced support and challenge, contributing to the school's ongoing improvements. Staff feel valued and supported, with a focus on their well-being and workload management.
The safeguarding arrangements at Firs Primary School are effective, with leaders prioritizing the safety and well-being of pupils. Staff are vigilant and knowledgeable about reporting concerns, and the designated safeguarding leads work collaboratively to support families. The school maintains thorough pre-employment checks for all adults.
To enhance its effectiveness, the school needs to improve the use of assessment information in some subjects to identify gaps in pupils' knowledge. Additionally, while attendance has improved, further efforts are required to reduce the number of pupils who are regularly absent. Overall, Firs Primary School is a nurturing environment where pupils are encouraged to thrive academically and socially.
