The Woodlands Community Primary School, located in Glascote, Tamworth, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 7 and 8, 2023. Under the leadership of headteacher Jon Baker, the school is part of the Community Academies Trust, which provides additional governance and support. The school is characterized by a nurturing environment where staff and pupils demonstrate mutual respect, fostering positive relationships. Parents express satisfaction with the school's welcoming atmosphere, noting that children are greeted by caring adults.
Pupils enjoy attending school and feel safe, with a calm and orderly environment conducive to learning. The school effectively addresses any instances of bullying, ensuring that pupils have access to trusted adults for support. High expectations are set for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, who achieve well academically. The school emphasizes the importance of developing responsible citizens by providing pupils with various roles and responsibilities, which they approach with enthusiasm.
Leaders at the school have a clear vision for academic and social flourishing, which is shared by the staff. The curriculum is designed to engage pupils, and all students, including those with SEND, have access to a broad range of subjects. The school has established effective routines for behavior, starting in Reception, which helps maintain a positive learning environment throughout the school. Learning activities in early years focus on early reading and number skills, preparing children well for future learning.
While lessons are generally well-planned and sequenced, there are occasions when the work set does not sufficiently challenge all pupils, leading to some finishing tasks early or finding them too easy. This can limit their progress. Reading is prioritized, with a robust reading program in place that includes regular staff training and support for pupils who need it. The school celebrates reading achievements and promotes a love for reading through various initiatives, including visits from authors and trips to the local library.
The school also enhances pupils' personal development through a range of extracurricular activities, including after-school clubs and community engagement events. Staff collaboration is strong, with leaders maintaining an open-door policy that fosters a supportive work environment. The governance structure is effective, with trustees providing a balance of support and challenge, ensuring the school continues to improve.
Safeguarding measures are effective, contributing to a safe environment for all pupils. However, the school is encouraged to enhance the ambition of its curriculum to ensure that all pupils are appropriately challenged and can reach their full potential. The inspection concluded that while the school is performing well, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that the curriculum is demanding across all subjects. Overall, the Woodlands Community Primary School is a good school that provides a supportive and engaging learning environment for its pupils.
