Brookfields Primary School, located in Hockley, Birmingham, was inspected on March 13 and 14, 2023, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a nurturing and inclusive environment where pupils feel valued and supported. Staff and students embody the school's ethos of SHINE, reflecting a culture of care and high expectations for achievement and behavior. Pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, generally achieve well, benefiting from the support provided by dedicated staff.
The school fosters a positive atmosphere where pupils are polite, welcoming, and proud of their school. They understand the importance of being ready, respectful, and safe, which contributes to their good behavior. Staff effectively address bullying, ensuring that pupils feel safe and confident in discussing their concerns. The school offers various opportunities for pupils to engage with the community through visits to farms and museums, enhancing their learning experiences and helping them retain important information.
Leaders at Brookfields Primary School are ambitious and focused on continuous improvement. They have designed a well-sequenced curriculum that allows pupils to build knowledge progressively. Teachers possess secure subject knowledge and utilize effective recall activities to reinforce learning. However, there are instances where the delivery of the curriculum could be improved, as some pupils may not retain information as effectively as intended. Teachers are encouraged to present information more clearly to enhance pupils' understanding.
The school prioritizes reading, with staff receiving training in phonics instruction. Pupils read books that align with their phonetic knowledge, which boosts their confidence and fluency. Leaders quickly identify pupils needing additional support, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance to catch up. The curriculum is adapted to support pupils who are new to English, allowing them to integrate and achieve well.
In the early years, children settle quickly and develop their vocabulary and communication skills through effective adult interaction. However, the outdoor learning environment is not as well-equipped or organized as it could be, limiting opportunities for outdoor learning. Leaders recognize the need to enhance this area to better support children's development.
While the school maintains high expectations for behavior, attendance remains a concern, with too many pupils missing school regularly. Leaders are actively working to address this issue by communicating the importance of attendance to parents and implementing strategies to reduce persistent absence.
Pupils learn about diversity and equality, gaining an understanding of different perspectives. They participate in activities that promote teamwork and trust, such as residential trips. Staff feel valued and supported, benefiting from coaching and training programs that consider their workload and well-being.
Parents and carers express overwhelming positivity about the school, feeling confident that their children are cared for and supported. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a culture of vigilance and regular training for staff. Pupils learn about safety in various contexts, including relationships and online dangers.
To improve further, leaders should ensure that the curriculum is delivered consistently across all subjects, enabling pupils to build their knowledge effectively. Additionally, efforts to improve attendance must continue to ensure that all pupils can fully benefit from the educational opportunities provided. Enhancing the outdoor learning environment in the early years is also essential for fostering engaging learning experiences.
