Keresley Newland Primary Academy, located in Coventry, Warwickshire, was inspected on May 4 and 5, 2023, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has made significant progress since its previous inadequate rating when it was last inspected before becoming a sponsored academy in December 2018. The inspection highlighted that pupils enjoy attending the school, feeling welcomed, happy, and safe due to the attentive care provided by the staff. The positive school environment is reinforced by the high expectations set for pupils' behavior and learning, which are supported by clear rules about respect.
Pupils demonstrate good behavior both in lessons and during playtime, where they engage positively with one another, including older pupils supporting younger ones. The school places a strong emphasis on reading, with daily phonics lessons and storytime in early years, fostering a love for reading that continues throughout their education. Pupils are encouraged to discuss their favorite authors and stories, which contributes to their enthusiasm for learning.
The curriculum is ambitious and designed to enrich pupils' lives through language and learning. Staff effectively monitor pupils' progress and adapt teaching to meet the needs of all learners, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Many pupils achieve well, although some in key stage one still struggle with reading fluency. The school is committed to ensuring that all pupils develop the necessary skills to read for meaning.
While the school excels in many areas, there are aspects that require improvement. Some pupils at the early stages of reading are not receiving the support needed to develop fluency, which affects their ability to read meaningfully. Additionally, in certain lessons, the tasks assigned do not always help pupils retain important knowledge, making it challenging for them to connect new learning with prior knowledge. Attendance is another area of concern, as some pupils miss too much school, hindering their progress.
The school prioritizes pupils' wider development through a bespoke curriculum that emphasizes personal, social, health, and economic education, focusing on respect and diversity. Staff express pride in their work environment, noting that leaders are considerate of their well-being and workload. Safeguarding measures are effective, with well-trained staff who can identify and respond to potential risks to pupils.
Overall, Keresley Newland Primary Academy has made commendable strides in creating a positive learning environment where pupils feel safe and valued. The leadership team, supported by the trust, has implemented clear systems for monitoring and improvement, which have contributed to the school's success. Continued focus on enhancing reading support, ensuring meaningful learning experiences, and improving attendance will further strengthen the school's effectiveness and help all pupils reach their full potential. The commitment to fostering a love for learning and a supportive community is evident, making Keresley Newland a school where pupils can thrive academically and personally.
