Canterbury Cross Primary School, located in Birchfield, Birmingham, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection from December 3 to 4, 2019. The school provides a positive learning environment where pupils are engaged and eager to learn. Upon entering the classrooms, one is greeted by enthusiastic students who are actively participating in their education. The school fosters a strong work ethic from an early age, encouraging children in the Nursery class to strive for their best. Teachers maintain high expectations for all students, and the curriculum is designed to be both exciting and comprehensive, covering a wide range of topics that motivate pupils to learn.
Pupils at Canterbury Cross Primary School take pride in their school and feel supported by their teachers, who genuinely care about their well-being and academic success. The atmosphere is respectful, with students demonstrating politeness and good behavior. Instances of bullying are rare and are addressed promptly, ensuring a safe environment for all. The school promotes a culture of safety and inclusivity, where pupils have a voice in decision-making processes that affect their school community.
Leadership at the school is strong, with senior leaders prioritizing the improvement of pupils' learning experiences. They actively seek feedback from staff, parents, and students to enhance the educational environment. The curriculum is well-structured, clearly outlining learning expectations for pupils. Teachers are dedicated to providing quality education, ensuring that content is taught in a manner that builds knowledge progressively. However, there are occasions when teachers attempt to cover too much material in a single unit, which can hinder the depth of understanding for some pupils.
The early years program sets a solid foundation for children, helping them develop good learning habits. Teachers are skilled in assessing pupils' understanding and providing immediate feedback to address misconceptions. Pupils with special educational needs receive the same broad curriculum as their peers, with necessary adaptations to support their learning.
Literacy and numeracy are emphasized across the curriculum, with strong reading instruction that enables pupils to grasp foundational skills early on. Pupils excel in mathematics, often applying their knowledge across different subjects. Writing progress is generally strong, although some pupils struggle with handwriting fluency, which can affect their overall writing speed.
The school enriches the educational experience through regular trips and visitors, broadening pupils' horizons and teaching them the importance of teamwork and respect for diversity. Pupils are encouraged to take on responsibilities, such as serving on the school council or acting as playground buddies, which they approach with seriousness. Extra-curricular activities, including sports and crafts, further enhance their school experience.
Overall, pupils exhibit good behavior and are focused during lessons, demonstrating a commitment to their learning. They understand the school's behavior policies and enjoy working towards rewards. Attendance rates are high, reflecting the school's efforts to maintain student engagement.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with staff vigilant in ensuring the safety of all pupils. They are trained to recognize and report any concerns promptly, prioritizing the needs of children. The school collaborates with external agencies to provide necessary support for families.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. In some foundation subjects, teachers need to refine their curriculum plans to allow for deeper exploration of topics. Additionally, there is a need for more consistent handwriting instruction to ensure all pupils develop a neat and cursive writing style by the end of key stage two. Overall, Canterbury Cross Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a strong foundation for future growth and development.
