Yenton Primary School, located in Erdington, Birmingham, has recently undergone an inspection that highlighted its overall effectiveness as good. The school, which is part of the Robin Hood Multi Academy Trust, is led by headteacher Paul Smith and has a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education for all its pupils, including those who are disadvantaged or have special educational needs and disabilities. The school has established a warm and welcoming environment where pupils feel safe and supported in their learning journey.
The curriculum at Yenton Primary is ambitious and well-structured, ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs, receive the support they need to succeed. Staff are trained to identify the needs of these pupils quickly and provide tailored support to help them fully engage in lessons. The curriculum is designed to build knowledge sequentially from early years through to Year 6, with a strong emphasis on the national curriculum and the school’s core values, encapsulated in the acronym RESPECT.
Pupils at Yenton Primary demonstrate positive attitudes towards their learning. They are encouraged to work hard, listen attentively, and support one another, fostering a sense of community within the school. The school promotes a range of extracurricular activities, including after-school sports clubs and opportunities for pupils to take on leadership roles, such as school councillors and play leaders. This involvement helps to develop their confidence and sense of responsibility.
The teaching of early reading is particularly strong, with a language-rich environment in the Reception class that prepares children well for their future learning. By the time pupils reach key stage two, most are performing well in reading, and those who require additional support receive it through daily interventions. The school also places a strong emphasis on reading for pleasure, with staff regularly reading aloud to classes and introducing pupils to a diverse selection of books.
While the school excels in many areas, there are aspects that require further development. Some foundation subjects have not received the same level of attention in defining the smaller steps of learning, which can lead to inconsistencies in pupil progress across different subjects. Additionally, the school is working to enhance its assessment practices to ensure that teachers have a clear understanding of what pupils know and what they still need to learn. This will help to provide a more comprehensive overview of pupil progress and inform curriculum adjustments as needed.
Attendance remains a challenge for some pupils, with a significant number being absent or persistently absent from school. This issue impacts their learning and overall progress. The school leadership is committed to addressing this by working closely with parents and external agencies to improve attendance rates.
The school’s safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and their well-being is prioritized. Staff feel valued and supported, with regular training and opportunities for professional development. The multi-academy trust plays a crucial role in supporting the school’s improvement efforts, with trustees actively involved in providing guidance and oversight.
Overall, Yenton Primary School is a place where pupils are encouraged to thrive academically and personally. The school’s commitment to high standards, inclusivity, and the well-being of its pupils is evident in its practices and the positive feedback from parents and the community. With continued focus on refining its curriculum and addressing attendance issues, Yenton Primary is well-positioned to enhance its educational offerings and support for all pupils.
