Grange Primary School, located in Harlescott, Shrewsbury, has recently undergone an inspection that highlighted its overall effectiveness as good. The school, which is part of the Marches Academy Trust, is led by headteacher Charlotte Summers and has a strong commitment to providing a nurturing environment for its pupils. The inspection took place on January 24 and 25, 2024, and the findings reflect a positive atmosphere where pupils thrive academically and socially.
The school’s vision of achievement through caring is evident in the high-quality pastoral care provided to students. Parents express a strong sense of community, with many describing the school as a family. Pupils feel safe and enjoy their time at school, which is crucial for their overall development. The school has high aspirations for its students, and the established ‘granger code’ promotes positive behavior and hard work. This has resulted in a calm and orderly learning environment where all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, achieve well.
Personal development is a key focus at Grange Primary School. The school encourages pupils to dream big and provides a wide range of extracurricular experiences that extend beyond the classroom. Pupils engage in various activities, including leadership roles such as playground leaders and farm monitors, which foster a sense of responsibility and pride. The school also emphasizes the importance of citizenship, teaching pupils how to be active and responsible members of their community.
The support provided by the Marches Academy Trust has been instrumental in the school’s success. Leaders and staff appreciate the guidance and resources available to them, which has helped improve the quality of education. Although some pupils historically did not achieve as well as expected by the end of key stage two, recent training and support have positively impacted their progress. Staff feel valued and respected, contributing to a positive working environment that benefits pupils.
Curriculum planning is a priority for school leaders, who have made significant changes to enhance subject delivery. Subject leaders are working to ensure that the curriculum is organized effectively, allowing pupils to build on their knowledge year after year. However, some subject leaders are still relatively new to their roles, which has led to variability in subject knowledge among teachers. This inconsistency can sometimes limit pupils’ progress.
Reading is a significant focus at Grange Primary School, with an effective reading program in place that begins in the early years. Staff receive regular training to ensure they can deliver this program effectively, and they monitor pupils’ reading progress closely. The school is also revamping its library and creating reading areas in classrooms to promote a love of reading among pupils.
In the early years, children receive attentive support from adults who know how to help them thrive. Leaders ensure that any additional support needed is provided promptly, and they collaborate with external specialists when necessary. This approach has resulted in positive outcomes for pupils with special educational needs.
Pupils exhibit excellent behavior and self-control, contributing to a positive school culture. Attendance is a priority, and leaders take swift action to address any issues, resulting in gradual improvements over time. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including after-school clubs and trips, which enhance pupils’ personal development and build their confidence.
Overall, Grange Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive community for its pupils. The school is well-positioned to continue its positive trajectory, with a focus on improving curriculum implementation and ensuring all subject leaders are equipped to support their areas effectively.
