Ankermoor Primary Academy, located in Tamworth, Staffordshire, underwent an inspection on June 20 and 21, 2023, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has made significant progress since its previous inspection, where it was rated as requiring improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good.
Pupils at Ankermoor Primary Academy attend regularly and create positive memories during their time at the school. They engage in their work and play with kindness and consideration for others, reflecting the school’s motto of “learn together, achieve together.” The staff know the pupils well and demonstrate genuine care for their well-being, contributing to a happy and safe learning environment.
The school leaders have high expectations for pupils to develop their knowledge across a broad range of subjects. A strong emphasis on reading is evident, with children encouraged to read regularly, which supports their learning in various subjects. This focus on literacy has resulted in pupils building their knowledge effectively and achieving well over time.
Behavior among pupils is generally good, with a clear understanding that bullying is unacceptable. Pupils report that bullying is rare and feel confident approaching adults with any concerns. The school’s values, which include respect, trust, responsibility, perseverance, enjoyment, and high expectations, are well understood by the pupils. These values are brought to life through fictional characters, and pupils enjoy learning about them. Staff reinforce these values during weekly assemblies, and pupils appreciate the recognition they receive for embodying these principles.
Despite the positive aspects, the school has faced challenges due to changes in leadership since the beginning of the academic year. This has led to some disruption in the school’s provision and uncertainty among parents. However, trust executives quickly recognized the need for support, which has helped leaders maintain their focus on curriculum development and effective teaching.
Leaders have made notable improvements to the curriculum since the last inspection. They have identified key knowledge and vocabulary for pupils to learn and organized this information logically to build understanding over time. For instance, in history, pupils explore the concept of invasion, starting with the Roman invasion of Britain and progressing to the Vikings and the Norman conquest. This well-structured curriculum positively impacts pupils’ retention and understanding of the subjects they study.
Teachers receive support to enhance their subject knowledge, collaborating in faculty teams and with colleagues from other local schools. Most teachers effectively deliver the curriculum, providing clear explanations. However, there are instances where activities do not align with curriculum goals or the needs of pupils, limiting opportunities for practice and application of learned knowledge.
Reading instruction is a strength of the school, with phonics being taught from the beginning of Reception. Pupils regularly practice reading with books that match their phonics knowledge, leading to fluency by Year 3. Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are included in a broad range of subjects, with teachers making useful adaptations. However, the approach to identifying and meeting the needs of pupils with complex needs requires improvement, as some do not receive the necessary specialist support.
Pupils are recognized for positive behavior in lessons, and staff encourage them to express their feelings when challenges arise. The school environment is calm, allowing pupils to concentrate on their learning. Personal development is promoted through the curriculum and various opportunities, helping pupils understand different cultures and social issues, preparing them for life in modern Britain.
Leaders and governors understand their roles and responsibilities, and staff feel supported during a period of change. While most parents express positive views about the school’s leadership, some do not share this sentiment. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff vigilant in protecting pupils and addressing concerns promptly. Pupils feel safe and know whom to approach with worries, learning strategies to stay safe, including online safety.
To further improve, the school should focus on enhancing teachers’ expertise in implementing the curriculum and ensuring that the needs of pupils with SEND are accurately identified and managed. Overall, Ankermoor Primary Academy demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and effective educational environment for its pupils.
