Netherbrook Primary School, located in Dudley, West Midlands, has been recognized for its overall effectiveness, receiving a Good rating in various aspects including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The inspection conducted on June 6 and 7, 2023, highlighted the school's commitment to creating a supportive and engaging environment where pupils feel valued and confident. Students enjoy attending school, and the learning experiences provided are often exciting, fostering enthusiasm among learners. The leadership team is ambitious for all pupils, striving to ensure that every child achieves their best.
The well-being and mental health of students are prioritized, with parents and carers expressing satisfaction regarding the care their children receive. The school promotes respectful relationships among staff and pupils, contributing to a calm atmosphere during lessons and playtimes. Pupils report that there are always staff available to assist them when needed. The school offers various opportunities for pupils to take on responsibilities through councils and ambassador roles, enhancing their sense of community involvement. Activities such as trips to cultural institutions and community service projects instill pride in the local area.
The inspection noted that the school has made significant strides in improving the curriculum since the last inspection. Leaders, supported by the academy trust, have implemented necessary changes swiftly. Subject leaders are increasingly involved in developing their subjects, with mathematics and phonics identified as strengths. The curriculum is designed with clear expectations for what pupils should learn and when, allowing for a structured progression of knowledge across subjects. However, some subjects, such as history and geography, require better sequencing to help pupils connect their current learning with prior knowledge.
In lessons, there are instances where teachers successfully link knowledge across different subjects, facilitating deeper understanding. For example, in art, teachers use the works of notable artists to inspire discussions about personal history and creativity. Nevertheless, there are occasions when such interdisciplinary connections are not as effectively planned, which can hinder pupils' ability to apply their knowledge comprehensively.
Leaders actively monitor pupils' learning and understanding, providing timely support when needed. Teachers are generally attentive to students' difficulties, but there are times when misconceptions are not addressed promptly. Reading is a key focus from the start of a pupil's journey at the school, with staff trained to support and engage students in their reading development. When pupils fall behind, staff take swift action to provide necessary assistance.
The school demonstrates a strong commitment to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that appropriate measures are in place to meet their needs. Early years provision is particularly effective, with staff fostering a love for learning and preparing children well for future challenges.
The school promotes understanding of healthy living and responsible citizenship, equipping pupils for life in modern Britain. Staff express pride in their roles and appreciate the support they receive from leadership regarding their well-being and workload. Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff trained to recognize and act on concerns promptly. Overall, Netherbrook Primary School is a nurturing environment that effectively supports the academic and personal development of its pupils while fostering a strong sense of community and responsibility.
