Mulberry Park Educate Together Primary Academy, located in Bath, has received a positive inspection report, highlighting its overall effectiveness as good. The school, which opened in September 2018, is part of the Educate Together Academy Trust and currently serves pupils from Reception Year to Year 4, with plans to expand to Year 6. The school prides itself on its inclusive ethos, underpinned by the ‘Learn Together’ curriculum, which emphasizes equality and respect among pupils.
The inspection, conducted on November 30 and December 1, 2022, noted that pupils, staff, and parents express pride in the school community. Pupils demonstrate a strong understanding of the importance of standing up for their beliefs and the impact of inequality. Staff maintain high expectations for all students, fostering strong relationships and providing effective support. Pupils feel valued and appreciated, particularly regarding how staff address incidents and resolve issues promptly. The school environment is described as harmonious, with pupils from different age groups playing well together during social times.
Leadership at Mulberry Park is characterized by ambition and a commitment to teamwork. Leaders ensure that both pupils and staff understand the school’s goals and provide necessary support and training to staff. The curriculum is designed to develop language and communication skills from the outset, with a strong emphasis on storytelling in the early years. A new phonics program has been introduced, allowing pupils to learn to read effectively, although some pupils still face challenges in accessing appropriate reading materials that match their phonetic knowledge.
The curriculum is ambitious and builds on prior knowledge, particularly in mathematics, where a systematic approach is evident. However, gaps in knowledge from the COVID-19 pandemic have been identified, prompting staff to adapt learning accordingly. While the core subjects are well-defined, some wider curriculum subjects lack clarity in the key knowledge that pupils need to learn, leading to difficulties in recalling previously learned information.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are well supported, with adjustments made to ensure they can learn alongside their peers. The school promotes personal development effectively, with pupils engaging in discussions about topical issues and understanding the importance of health and well-being. The school’s approach to safeguarding is robust, with a strong culture of safety and well-trained staff who understand their responsibilities.
Trustees and local governors have a clear understanding of the school’s strengths and areas for improvement, providing appropriate support and challenge to school leaders. The report emphasizes the need for leaders to ensure that the important knowledge across all subjects is clearly identified and that reading materials align with pupils' phonetic knowledge to enhance fluency.
Overall, Mulberry Park Educate Together Primary Academy is recognized for its positive environment, strong leadership, and commitment to inclusivity, while also being encouraged to address specific areas for improvement in its curriculum and reading support.
