Colmers Farm Primary School, located in Rubery, Birmingham, has recently undergone its first inspection since becoming an academy in 2019. The inspection, conducted on June 14 and 15, 2023, resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good, with specific areas such as personal development being rated outstanding. The school has a strong sense of community, where pupils are greeted warmly by a dedicated staff team that knows them well. This supportive environment helps students settle into their school day, fostering respectful and welcoming attitudes towards visitors.
The leadership team at Colmers Farm Primary has high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum is broad and ambitious, allowing pupils to enjoy their lessons while receiving the necessary support to access the full range of educational opportunities. Pupils are well aware of the school’s behavioral expectations, which emphasize being ready, respectful, and safe. They understand the concept of bullying and trust staff to address any incidents promptly, contributing to a safe and caring atmosphere.
The school excels in promoting and celebrating diversity, ensuring that all pupils feel valued and included in school life. Opportunities for leadership, such as becoming head pupils or joining the school council, are available, and pupils express enthusiasm for these responsibilities. The curriculum reflects the leaders' passion for education, with a well-sequenced approach that enables all pupils to work towards achieving the best outcomes.
Reading is prioritized throughout the school, with pupils engaging in regular reading activities and expressing excitement about their books. The phonics program is well-structured and consistently delivered, ensuring that early reading skills are developed effectively. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in early years where some children do not receive adequate support in letter formation, leading to misconceptions that can hinder their writing progress.
The school environment is well-resourced, promoting high levels of engagement and curiosity among early years pupils. Despite this, leaders have not clearly defined the specific knowledge and vocabulary that children should acquire, which can affect their learning progression. Additionally, while pupils generally exhibit positive behavior during lessons, some struggle to meet expectations during unstructured times, prompting concerns from parents.
Colmers Farm Primary is committed to inclusivity, with pupils with special educational needs fully integrated into all aspects of school life. The school provides high-quality pastoral support, allowing pupils to access spaces where they can relax and talk to adults when needed. The personal development provision is exceptional, offering a wide range of opportunities beyond the curriculum, including community involvement and extracurricular activities.
Leaders at all levels demonstrate a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for development. Staff feel supported in their professional growth and well-being. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of safety and regular training for staff. Pupils learn about safety through a well-designed personal development curriculum, which includes online safety.
To improve, the school should focus on embedding a consistent culture of high expectations for behavior, particularly during social times. Additionally, leaders need to identify specific knowledge and vocabulary for early years pupils to enhance their learning experience. Addressing handwriting support and ensuring that misconceptions are corrected will also be crucial for developing effective writing habits among pupils. Overall, Colmers Farm Primary School is making significant strides in providing a quality education and fostering a supportive community for its pupils.
