Audley Primary School, located in Stechford, Birmingham, has undergone significant improvements since its last inspection in June 2019, where it was rated as requiring improvement. The recent inspection on June 20 and 21, 2023, resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good across all areas, including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school has made notable strides in creating a positive learning environment where pupils feel safe, happy, and well cared for. Staff members are dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of students, regularly checking in with them and closely monitoring their behaviour.
Pupils at Audley Primary School demonstrate high levels of engagement in their lessons, responding positively to the high expectations set by staff. They listen attentively, interact well with their peers, and navigate the school environment in a calm and sensible manner. The school fosters a friendly atmosphere, contributing to a positive educational experience. The curriculum is designed to be engaging, with a variety of visitors enhancing the learning experience. Pupils particularly enjoy the rewards for regular reading, such as selecting books from a vending machine, which encourages a love for reading.
The leadership team has effectively implemented an ambitious curriculum and a culture of aspiration, supported by the trust. They have established clear systems to monitor the impact of their initiatives, and the majority of staff express pride in their work at the school. Teachers feel supported and appreciated, which contributes to a positive working environment. Reading is prioritized, with daily phonics lessons and additional reading activities in the early years, fostering a strong foundation for literacy. This focus continues into key stage one, where staff utilize various assessment strategies to identify and support pupils who may struggle with reading.
The curriculum is coherently sequenced, with subject leaders clearly defining the knowledge and skills pupils should acquire. In the early years, there is a strong emphasis on language and communication, which lays a solid groundwork for future learning. Teachers employ strategies to help pupils retain their learning, such as revisiting key themes and retrieving prior knowledge at the beginning of lessons. This approach has proven effective, as pupils can recall a significant amount of their learning across various subjects.
While the school has made progress in supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, there are still areas for improvement. Recent changes have enhanced the identification of these pupils' needs and the adaptations made in teaching. However, inconsistencies remain in some classes, leading to a few pupils not making the expected progress. Leaders are encouraged to continue engaging with parents and embedding improvements to ensure that all pupils with SEND achieve their potential.
The school environment is calm and orderly, with polite and welcoming pupils. High expectations for behaviour are evident, and strategies are in place to support those who may find it challenging. Attendance has improved, but there are still too many pupils who do not attend regularly, which affects their progress. Leaders are committed to working with families to address attendance issues.
Pupils have opportunities to develop leadership skills through roles such as safeguarding and eco-ambassadors, contributing positively to the school community. They understand the importance of fundamental British values, including tolerance and respect, and are well-prepared for life in modern Britain.
The safeguarding arrangements at Audley Primary School are effective. Leaders understand the local context and the risks pupils may face, ensuring staff are well-trained to identify signs of potential harm. All staff know how to report concerns, and leaders act swiftly to address any issues, demonstrating a commitment to pupil safety.
In summary, Audley Primary School has made significant improvements since its last inspection, achieving a good rating across all areas. The leadership team has effectively implemented an ambitious curriculum, prioritizing reading and providing a supportive environment for both pupils and staff. While there are areas for further development, particularly in supporting pupils with SEND and improving attendance, the school is well-positioned to continue its positive trajectory.
