New Bradwell Primary School, located in Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, has recently undergone an inspection on December 13 and 14, 2023. The school has been rated as good overall, with specific areas of outstanding performance in behavior and attitudes, as well as personal development. The quality of education and early years provision were also rated as good, while leadership and management received a good rating. The school was previously inspected 11 years ago, where it was rated outstanding.
The headteacher, Sebastian Gray, leads the school, which is part of The Grand Union Partnership. This partnership involves shared responsibilities for the school's management, overseen by CEO Phil Webster and a board of trustees chaired by Andrew Brodie. The school has a long history of success, having been exempt from routine inspections for a period due to legal provisions.
Pupils at New Bradwell Primary School thrive in an environment that emphasizes achievement and personal growth. Parents express high levels of satisfaction with the school's curriculum, describing it as challenging and varied, allowing children to explore their interests. The behavior of pupils is exemplary, both in lessons and throughout the school, fostering a positive and trusting atmosphere between staff and students. Young leaders within the school demonstrate maturity in their roles, contributing to a joyful and social lunchtime experience.
The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including clubs and sports, which cater to all pupils regardless of their abilities. The high participation rates in these activities reflect the school's commitment to providing a well-rounded education. The curriculum is designed to go beyond academics, with a strong focus on character development that begins in the early years. Pupils engage in outdoor learning, growing fruits and vegetables, and participating in experience days that expose them to various cultures and artistic expressions.
Leaders have developed a comprehensive curriculum that is ambitious and well-structured, ensuring that essential knowledge is identified and sequenced effectively. The core curriculum is well established, with assessments in place to track pupil progress and provide additional support where needed. The school is particularly attentive to the needs of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, ensuring they are fully included in all aspects of school life.
Pupils develop a love for literature early on, with many reading widely and enjoying diverse books. The phonics program is highly effective, enabling pupils to become confident readers. Teachers are skilled in using resources to model complex ideas, and they check pupils' understanding during lessons to address any misconceptions. However, there is room for improvement in the assessment of foundation subjects, as teachers currently lack clarity on pupils' understanding over time.
Trust leaders provide high-quality oversight and support, ensuring staff receive tailored training. The new headteacher has a clear vision for ongoing improvement, particularly in curriculum leadership. While some subject leaders are new to their roles, the school recognizes the need for consistent support across the curriculum to enhance the learning experience for all pupils.
The safeguarding arrangements at New Bradwell Primary School are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all students. The school is committed to continuous improvement and is focused on refining its assessment practices and subject leadership to further enhance the quality of education provided. Overall, New Bradwell Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to fostering an inclusive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
