Brookburn Community School, located in Chorlton-Cum-Hardy, Manchester, was inspected on February 28 and 29, 2024, and received an overall effectiveness rating of Good. The school, which is part of the Link Learning Trust, is led by Head of School Jen Holden and Executive Headteacher Jayne Kennedy. This inspection marked the first under the current framework since the school became an academy in 2017, following its previous outstanding rating in 2011.
The school fosters a positive environment where pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, achieve well across various aspects of their development. The school's vision emphasizes inspiring and nurturing students, which is evident in the joyful demeanor of pupils as they arrive at school. The atmosphere in classrooms is calm and focused, with pupils demonstrating trust in their teachers and a commitment to their learning. They are generally polite, respectful, and well-mannered, contributing to a conducive learning environment.
Brookburn Community School has high expectations for academic achievement, and most pupils enjoy their lessons, developing a passion for learning. The curriculum is designed to be broad and well-structured, allowing pupils to build knowledge over time. For instance, in geography, pupils effectively connect their learning about different climates and climate change. However, there are a few subjects where the curriculum content needs refinement, which occasionally hinders teachers from designing lessons that build securely on prior knowledge. This can result in some pupils not achieving their full potential.
Teachers typically select activities and resources that support learning and retention of the curriculum. Despite recent changes, there are instances where certain aspects are not delivered as effectively as intended, leading to variability in pupils' experiences across classes. Most staff utilize assessment strategies well to ensure that pupils' earlier learning is secure. Reading is prioritized within the curriculum, with early years pupils learning phonics and practicing reading with appropriately matched books. The school also promotes a love of reading through initiatives like the book club, where older pupils inspire younger ones to explore a variety of literature.
The school has effective systems in place to identify and support pupils with additional needs, ensuring they access the same ambitious curriculum as their peers. From the early years, children learn established routines that help them settle quickly into school life. Pupils across all year groups exhibit maturity and enthusiasm for learning, understanding the importance of regular attendance.
Personal development is a key focus, with pupils learning about diverse faiths and cultures, fostering an environment of acceptance and respect. Leadership roles, such as eco-councillors, are taken seriously by pupils, who actively contribute to school life, including initiatives like refreshing the school allotment. The trustees and local academy council provide appropriate support and challenge, driving the school towards continuous improvement.
Staff express pride in working at Brookburn and feel valued, thanks to the trust's support in managing workloads and professional development. Recent communication strategies have strengthened relationships with parents and carers. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. To enhance the quality of education further, the school should refine curriculum content in certain subjects and ensure consistent delivery of the intended curriculum across all classes. Overall, Brookburn Community School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a nurturing and effective educational experience for its pupils.
