Quinton Church Primary School, located in Birmingham, continues to be recognized as a good school following its inspection on October 16-17, 2019. The school is committed to serving its community and ensuring that every child achieves their best. Staff members are well-acquainted with the individual needs of each pupil, fostering an environment where students behave well and feel safe. Instances of bullying are rare, and when they do occur, school leaders address them effectively. Parents express high levels of satisfaction, with many agreeing that their children are happy and secure at the school.
Students show enthusiasm for their education, particularly in reading, and take pride in their well-maintained book bags, which they use to engage in reading activities at home with their parents. The school emphasizes values of peace and respect, helping pupils understand diverse faiths and cultures. Educational trips to places like Birmingham city center and Weston-super-Mare enhance students' understanding of history and their local area. The school actively involves parents in their children's learning and school life.
The leadership team focuses on ensuring that pupils develop strong reading skills from an early age. In Reception, children quickly adapt to reading routines and learn to differentiate between real and 'alien' words. By the end of Year 2, very few students fall behind in their reading. The phonics program is effective, enabling pupils to become confident and fluent readers. Those requiring additional support receive it promptly, and students enjoy a variety of texts that nurture their love for reading.
Across the curriculum, pupils have made significant progress, particularly in reading and mathematics, where they performed well in assessments. By Year 6, students are well-prepared for secondary school challenges. However, progress in writing has not been as strong, indicating a need for further development in this area. In mathematics, students engage in increasingly challenging work, which they enjoy, and teachers aim for them to master their times tables by Year 3.
While the school excels in many areas, there are aspects that require improvement. The assessment of learning in foundation subjects, such as history, is not yet well established. Leaders recognize the need to enhance this area to ensure teachers understand what pupils know before progressing in their learning. Additionally, some pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) have not made as much progress in mathematics, necessitating effective support to help them catch up.
Pupils benefit from high-quality extracurricular opportunities, particularly in music, where they have collaborated with the Welsh National Opera and performed at notable venues. During lessons, students remain focused and engaged, demonstrating good behavior and respect for one another. While most parents and staff agree on the positive behavior in school, a minority of survey respondents expressed concerns, indicating a need for further engagement with pupils to understand their perspectives.
The school has taken steps to reduce staff workload, which has been well received by teachers. Leaders prioritize staff well-being and work-life balance, contributing to a positive working environment. Governors are aware of the school's strengths and provide effective oversight to ensure continuous improvement.
The safeguarding arrangements at Quinton Church Primary School are effective, with a culture of vigilance and clear protocols for raising concerns. Staff are well-trained and updated regularly on safeguarding practices, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, while the school demonstrates many strengths, there are areas for growth, particularly in writing and the assessment of foundation subjects, which leaders are committed to addressing.
