Barnfields Primary School, located in Staffordshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 18 and 19, 2024. The headteacher, Graham Ball, leads the school, which is part of the South East Stafford Academy Trust. This trust is overseen by CEO Gemma Bettany and a board of trustees chaired by Matthew Rowell. The school has a positive atmosphere where pupils feel happy and engaged, reflected in their high attendance rates. The curriculum is designed to provide a wide range of exciting and worthwhile activities, allowing students to explore new interests and develop skills.
The school maintains high expectations for both staff and students, resulting in strong academic performance, particularly in English and mathematics. The curriculum is broad, with a significant emphasis on the arts and sports, ensuring that pupils are well-prepared for future educational endeavors. The core values of the school are evident in the responsible attitudes and thoughtful behavior of the students. Bullying is not tolerated, and the staff are proactive in addressing any instances of unkind behavior, ensuring a safe environment for all.
Beyond the classroom, Barnfields Primary School offers numerous clubs and leadership opportunities for students. Pupil-led committees play a vital role in decision-making, and staff support students in building self-confidence. The school’s motto, believe and achieve, is actively practiced, fostering a culture of ambition and success.
Since the last inspection, the school has made significant strides in enhancing its educational offerings. Academic standards in English and mathematics remain high, as evidenced by the quality of students' work and assessment results. The staff are attentive to the needs and interests of the children, providing support that encourages perseverance and achievement. A key factor in the school’s success is its effective approach to teaching reading, which begins in Reception with a systematic phonics program. Additional catch-up sessions are provided to ensure all students develop strong reading skills. The school also carefully selects texts to engage students and foster a lasting interest in literature.
Mathematics instruction is well-organized, contributing to students' overall success in the subject. Looking ahead, the school aims to further develop students' spoken language and oracy skills, building on its existing strengths. The early identification of students with special educational needs is facilitated by the school’s efficient approach to early reading and numeracy, ensuring that all pupils receive the necessary support to thrive.
In addition to core subjects, the school is committed to delivering a comprehensive wider curriculum. Staff have incorporated research on effective learning into the curriculum design, resulting in a logical sequence of lessons that build on prior knowledge. Physical education is a notable strength, enhanced by expert input, while other subjects are continuously refined to provide students with opportunities to apply their knowledge effectively.
The school also offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including clubs, competitions, and trips, which enrich students' learning experiences and personal development. The core values of respect, resilience, responsibility, reflection, and positivity are integrated into daily school life, helping students understand the importance of effort and reward.
Parents express high levels of satisfaction with the school, praising the quality of leadership and care provided for their children. Staff report strong job satisfaction and a sense of purpose, feeling valued and proud to be part of a supportive school community. Governance and leadership from the trust are effective, guiding the school on a path of continuous improvement.
The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all students. However, the school recognizes the need to enhance opportunities for students to recall and apply important knowledge in some subjects, as well as to focus more deliberately on developing spoken language skills. By addressing these areas, Barnfields Primary School aims to build on its successes and continue providing a high-quality education for its pupils.
