Parkside Primary School, located in Staffordshire, received a positive inspection report following its evaluation on July 12 and 13, 2022. The school was rated as good overall, with specific commendations in various areas including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school’s motto, Come as you are and leave as a champion, reflects its commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for students and their families. The leadership team has successfully created a community-focused ethos, welcoming pupils with unique initiatives that engage families and promote a sense of belonging.
The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, clubs, and opportunities that allow students to explore their interests and talents. Activities such as rock climbing, acting, and gymnastics are available, contributing to the development of well-rounded individuals. Pupils demonstrate politeness and maturity, expressing appreciation for the support they receive from staff in preparing them for a successful future. The school environment is safe, and students enjoy their learning experiences, which build progressively on their prior knowledge. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly regarding the consistency of work quality in students' books, where basic errors are sometimes overlooked.
Behavior among pupils is generally good, with minor disagreements being resolved quickly by teachers. Instances of bullying are rare, and students feel confident that adults will address any issues that arise. The school has implemented a well-structured curriculum that supports all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. This curriculum is designed to facilitate learning in a systematic manner, starting from early years and continuing through to later stages of education.
While the school has established clear principles for assessing learning, there are concerns regarding the quality of written work in some year groups. Basic mistakes in grammar, punctuation, and spelling are not consistently addressed, leading to repeated errors and a lack of pride in presentation. Additionally, some pupils, particularly those at the early stages of reading, struggle with fluency, which hinders their overall reading experience. The school leadership is encouraged to refine the support provided to these pupils to enhance their reading skills.
The early years provision is well thought out, with a focus on creating an engaging learning environment. Staff are trained to support children effectively, ensuring they are prepared for their next stages of learning. Pupils exhibit good behavior in lessons and appreciate the supportive role of staff in resolving conflicts. The school promotes a range of responsibilities for pupils, fostering a sense of community involvement and personal growth from a young age.
Leaders and governors share a vision of being community-oriented while maintaining high standards. Their thoughtful approach to decision-making positively impacts the development of both pupils and staff, creating a valued and supportive workplace. Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff receiving comprehensive training to recognize and address potential risks to pupils. Overall, Parkside Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a quality education while fostering a nurturing environment for all students. However, addressing the identified areas for improvement will be essential for maintaining and enhancing the school's standards in the future.
