Northfield Manor Primary Academy, located in Birmingham, has received a positive inspection report, reflecting its overall effectiveness as a school. The inspection, conducted on 15-16 September 2021, rated the school as good in all areas, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. Pupils express pride in their school, demonstrating confidence in their learning and a strong sense of belonging. Many students report feeling safe and supported, with effective measures in place to address any instances of bullying. The school has successfully fostered an environment where pupils can thrive academically and socially.
The leadership team has made significant strides in enhancing the curriculum and teaching quality, particularly in reading. A new phonics scheme was introduced, building on previous initiatives, and staff received refresher training to ensure consistency in teaching practices. This has resulted in most pupils reading confidently and fluently. The school has also prioritized addressing learning gaps that emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring that all pupils receive the support they need to catch up.
Staff members are dedicated and feel valued, with leaders considering their workload and well-being. The school has implemented a clear behavior policy that has led to improved behavior in classrooms, allowing teachers to focus on delivering high-quality instruction without disruptions. Subject leaders are knowledgeable and passionate about their areas, carefully planning the knowledge and skills pupils need to acquire. Pupils are able to articulate how their prior learning has contributed to their current understanding, showcasing the effectiveness of the curriculum.
In the early years, children have settled in well, demonstrating an understanding of rules and routines. They engage in cooperative play and are encouraged to communicate effectively with peers and staff. The school promotes a love of reading, with pupils expressing enthusiasm for various texts and demonstrating comprehension skills. They engage in discussions about the themes and messages in the books they read, reflecting a sensitivity to global issues.
Extracurricular activities are abundant, with a variety of clubs available to pupils, fostering their interests and talents. The school community is inclusive, with pupils embracing diversity and showing respect for one another. The trustees are actively involved in monitoring and supporting the school, ensuring that leaders are held accountable for their decisions.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Some subject plans lack the necessary detail to guide teachers in assessing what pupils need to know and remember. This can lead to inconsistencies in ensuring that all pupils, particularly the most able, are challenged appropriately. Leaders are encouraged to refine these plans and enhance the use of assessment to better identify pupils' knowledge and understanding.
Overall, Northfield Manor Primary Academy is a school that provides a supportive and effective learning environment. The commitment of the staff and leadership team to continuous improvement is evident, and the positive experiences of pupils reflect the school's dedication to fostering a culture of learning and respect. The school is well-positioned to build on its successes and address the identified areas for development, ensuring that all pupils receive the high-quality education they deserve.
