Brisley Church of England Primary Academy, located in Norfolk, has recently undergone its first inspection since becoming an academy in December 2018. The inspection, conducted on May 17 and 18, 2023, resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good across all evaluated areas, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. The school has created a positive environment where pupils feel happy and valued, fostering both their educational and personal growth.
Pupils at Brisley Primary Academy demonstrate a strong sense of community, embodying the values of being ready, respectful, and safe. They engage in supportive interactions, with older students taking responsibility for younger ones during break times. The school has made significant strides in recent years, with leaders setting high expectations that pupils have responded to positively. This has resulted in polite and confident students who show good concentration levels in class, indicating effective learning from a well-structured curriculum. By the end of Year 6, pupils are well-prepared for the transition to secondary education.
The school offers a variety of opportunities for pupils to take on responsibilities, such as participating in charity fundraising and leading school worship. Leaders have developed a curriculum that clearly outlines what pupils should learn each year, ensuring that it is ambitious and well-planned. Teachers effectively assess pupils' learning and identify areas where additional support is needed, allowing for timely interventions to help those who may fall behind. The curriculum is continually reviewed to build on prior knowledge, with adjustments made to ensure that mixed-age classes receive appropriate challenges.
Phonics instruction begins in Reception, with a systematic approach that allows pupils to build their phonetic knowledge progressively. Regular assessments help identify pupils who require extra support, ensuring they receive assistance promptly. However, some staff may not organize their classrooms as effectively as others, leading to inconsistencies in phonics learning among pupils. Leaders are committed to promoting a love of reading, providing daily opportunities for quiet reading and exposure to a diverse range of literature.
The school is attentive to the needs of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, ensuring that their progress is monitored closely and that they receive the necessary support. Reception children receive a strong foundation in their education, focusing on reading and communication skills, which prepares them well for Year 1. The school emphasizes routines that foster learning and social interaction, contributing to a positive learning environment.
Pupils enjoy personal development activities, including gardening and participating in competitions, which help them develop character and respect for diversity. The school offers a range of clubs and residential opportunities, ensuring inclusivity for all pupils. Staff development is prioritized, with opportunities for teachers to collaborate and share best practices across schools.
The inspection highlighted areas for improvement, including the need for further refinement of the curriculum in some subjects to enhance pupils' retention of knowledge. Leaders are encouraged to ensure that the teaching sequence builds effectively year on year and that all pupils are appropriately challenged. Additionally, the implementation of the new phonics approach requires ongoing support for staff to enhance its effectiveness.
Overall, Brisley Church of England Primary Academy has established a strong foundation for educational excellence, with a commitment to continuous improvement and the well-being of its pupils. The school community is united in its goal to provide the best possible education and support for all students.
