Priory Primary School, located in Dudley, West Midlands, has recently undergone an inspection that has resulted in a positive evaluation across several key areas. The school is part of the Hales Valley Trust and is led by headteacher Kelvin Daley. The inspection, conducted on 15 and 16 October 2024, highlighted the school’s commitment to providing a good quality of education, effective leadership, and a supportive environment for personal development.
The school serves a diverse community and is characterized by warm and respectful relationships between staff and pupils. New students quickly integrate and form friendships, thanks to the supportive atmosphere fostered by the staff. The behavior of pupils is commendable, with adherence to the school’s rules promoting a safe and respectful learning environment. The school has made significant strides in raising academic standards, particularly in English and mathematics, with improvements noted in early years outcomes as well.
Priory Primary School offers a wide range of personal development opportunities, including events like Prioryfest, a summer music festival that has become a highlight for the school community. The school also provides various after-school clubs that are well-received by pupils. The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, catering for the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Early years provision is particularly strong, with effective support for children transitioning into school life, which alleviates parental concerns.
Reading is a priority at the school, with a systematic approach to phonics and reading sessions tailored to support pupils at risk of falling behind. The school works closely with parents to enhance their ability to support their children’s reading at home. Additionally, pupils with special educational needs receive effective support, ensuring their full participation in school life. The bespoke provision for pupils with complex needs has proven to be highly effective.
Staff training in core subjects has equipped teachers with the necessary skills to deliver high-quality instruction. Regular assessments help identify and address gaps in pupils’ knowledge, contributing to their strong performance in core subjects. However, there is a need for further training in non-core subjects to ensure consistent teaching quality across the curriculum.
The school promotes a well-rounded education, emphasizing personal, social, health, and economic education. Pupils learn about various cultures and the importance of tolerance and respect, preparing them for life in modern Britain. The school is proactive in addressing attendance issues, recognizing the link between attendance and safeguarding. It collaborates with families to improve attendance and has sought external support for persistent absence.
While the school has made commendable progress, there are areas for improvement. The curriculum is not consistently well-taught in some non-core subjects, and gaps in pupil knowledge are not always identified. The school is encouraged to enhance communication with parents regarding new policies and procedures to ensure they are well-informed about their children’s education.
Overall, Priory Primary School has demonstrated a commitment to improvement and excellence in education. The leadership team, alongside trustees, is dedicated to enhancing the educational experience for all pupils, ensuring they have the best possible opportunities for success in their future endeavors. The effective safeguarding arrangements further contribute to a safe and nurturing environment for learning.
