Robert Mellors Primary Academy, located in Arnold, Nottinghamshire, was inspected on October 4 and 5, 2022, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has established a positive environment where both staff and pupils are committed to making a difference. Pupils express that they feel safe and happy, attributing this to the attentive care provided by the staff. The school promotes a culture of respect and resilience, encouraging pupils to connect these values to their learning experiences. Staff are dedicated to understanding the individual needs of pupils, fostering a supportive atmosphere that emphasizes kindness and respect.
The leadership team has successfully integrated the ethos of making a difference throughout the school. Pupils are taught the importance of being ready to learn and are guided in understanding their emotions, which helps them build positive relationships. The behavior of pupils is commendable, as they demonstrate kindness and inclusivity towards one another. Parents and carers appreciate the high expectations set by the school, with many expressing satisfaction with their children's progress and well-being.
The curriculum at Robert Mellors Primary Academy is designed to provide a strong foundation, particularly in the early years. Children in Nursery and Reception benefit from both adult-led sessions and opportunities for independent learning in a well-structured environment. The leadership team is actively working to enhance the curriculum to ensure it is ambitious for all pupils. While some subjects are well-developed, others require further refinement to ensure that the important knowledge and skills are clearly identified and sequenced.
Teachers effectively recap previous learning at the beginning of lessons, helping pupils retain essential knowledge. They build on this foundation to deepen understanding, particularly in subjects like religious education, where pupils explore wisdom texts from various faiths. The use of questioning in lessons allows teachers to gauge pupils' understanding and provide appropriate support. The staff's strong subject knowledge engages pupils in meaningful learning experiences, and pupils take pride in their achievements.
Reading is a priority at the school, with pupils engaging in daily reading activities and enjoying access to a variety of books. Younger pupils receive daily phonics instruction, which helps most of them become fluent readers. However, some pupils face challenges in reading the materials provided, which can hinder their progress. The leadership team is committed to ensuring that all pupils succeed and works closely with families to identify and address any barriers to learning.
The school has established effective systems to support pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they can access the full curriculum. Consistent application of school rules contributes to a positive learning environment, and pupils appreciate the structure and routines in place. Attendance is good, and the school provides support for families struggling to meet attendance expectations.
Opportunities for character development are abundant, with initiatives encouraging pupils to engage in community activities and take on responsibilities within the school. The values of inclusion and respect are emphasized, preparing pupils for life in modern Britain. The leadership team is highly skilled and supported by the Redhill Academy Trust, fostering a culture of care for staff well-being and workload. Staff feel valued and proud to work at the school.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of safeguarding in place. Staff are trained to identify and report concerns, and good relationships with families encourage open communication. Overall, Robert Mellors Primary Academy demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and a supportive environment for all pupils. However, there is a need for continued development in certain subjects to ensure that all pupils can build their knowledge and skills effectively as they progress through the school.
