Netherton CofE Primary School, located in Dudley, West Midlands, has recently undergone an inspection that highlighted its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on 27 and 28 June 2023, and the school has maintained its previous grade of good since the last inspection in March 2022. The school is characterized by a strong sense of community among staff and pupils, who share high ambitions for their educational journey. The new leadership has fostered a culture of support and acceptance, allowing pupils to feel valued and capable of achieving their goals.
The curriculum at Netherton CofE Primary is broad and ambitious, with a focus on a wide range of subjects. The quality of education is improving rapidly, although there are areas where some pupils, particularly in writing, are not achieving their full potential. The school has made significant strides in enhancing the learning experience, with positive relationships between teachers, pupils, and parents contributing to a confident and happy environment. The early years provision is particularly strong, providing children with a solid foundation for their educational journey.
Pupils demonstrate respectful and positive behavior, although there are instances during playtime where some may not behave as expected. Staff are attentive to the needs of these pupils and address any behavioral issues promptly. The school places a strong emphasis on personal development, with opportunities for pupils to take on leadership roles, such as being part of the school council or sports leaders. These roles help pupils develop a sense of responsibility and contribute to a range of enrichment activities, including dance, mindfulness, fitness, and art.
Despite the positive aspects, the school faces challenges, particularly regarding attendance. A significant number of pupils miss school unnecessarily, which hinders their learning and progress. Leaders are aware of the need to engage more effectively with parents and external agencies to improve attendance rates. Additionally, while the new reading program has been successful in enhancing literacy skills, writing remains an area for improvement. Some teachers do not consistently enforce proper letter formation, leading to discrepancies in writing accuracy among pupils.
The school has made commendable efforts to support pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Leaders quickly identify pupils who require additional support, ensuring that all pupils follow the same curriculum. However, there are instances where some teachers do not adapt their lessons adequately for pupils with SEND, which can impact their understanding and achievement. Leaders are working to ensure that all teachers consistently modify their teaching to support these pupils effectively.
Governance at Netherton CofE Primary is strong, with governors and trustees actively involved in supporting and challenging school leaders. They hold leaders accountable for safeguarding and the quality of SEND provision, ensuring that the school meets the needs of all its pupils. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a culture of safety embedded within the school. Leaders are proactive in identifying and addressing any concerns, ensuring that pupils learn about safety, including online safety.
In summary, Netherton CofE Primary School is a good school with a strong sense of community and a commitment to improving the quality of education. While there are areas for growth, particularly in writing and attendance, the leadership team is dedicated to fostering an environment where all pupils can thrive and achieve their potential. The school’s focus on personal development, positive relationships, and a broad curriculum positions it well for continued success in the future.
