Wallbrook Primary Academy, located in Coseley, Bilston, West Midlands, has recently undergone an inspection on the 24th and 25th of October 2023. The school has been rated as good overall, with specific areas such as leadership and management, and early years provision receiving an outstanding rating. The principal, Lorna McGregor, leads the school, which is part of the Shireland Collegiate Academy Trust, overseen by CEO Sir Mark Grundy and a board of trustees chaired by Andrew Dennis.
The inspection highlighted a warm and welcoming environment at Wallbrook, where pupils feel proud to attend. The school fosters a sense of acceptance and safety, allowing students to come to school ready to learn. Pupils actively contribute to a calm and purposeful atmosphere, treating each other with respect and taking on leadership roles, such as diversity, equality, and inclusion leaders. The school’s values of excite, explore, and excel are evident in the high expectations set by staff, who are dedicated to ensuring all pupils succeed. A rich variety of experiences, including visits to the opera and collaborations with artists and orchestras, enriches the curriculum.
Parents and carers have expressed appreciation for the support their children receive, noting significant improvements in recent years. Despite facing challenges, the school has shown resilience and growth. The thematic curriculum implemented by school leaders is ambitious and meaningful, allowing pupils to enjoy their learning while deepening their understanding over time. In mathematics, teachers present concepts clearly, enabling pupils, including those with special educational needs, to become confident in their skills. English lessons are engaging, although there is a noted inconsistency in pupils' handwriting, which affects their ability to record ideas fluently.
In early years, children thrive with a broad and ambitious curriculum tailored to their needs. The positive behaviors displayed by children are a testament to the effective guidance and support from adults. Overall, pupils behave well, contributing to a calm classroom environment and enjoying positive relationships with peers during playtime. The school has successfully improved attendance, although it remains low, and continues to work on engaging parents to further enhance attendance rates.
The school provides numerous opportunities for pupils' wider development, including roles such as school councillors and junior librarians. Their understanding of equality is well-developed, integrated throughout the curriculum. The leadership team, including those responsible for governance, demonstrates a thorough understanding of the school’s strengths and areas for improvement. They are committed to continuous improvement, supported by effective training and resources from the trust.
Safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. However, the school has identified areas for improvement, particularly in the teaching of handwriting, which affects the quality of pupils' written work. Additionally, some pupils do not attend school as frequently as they should, leading to missed learning opportunities. The school aims to enhance engagement with parents and carers to improve attendance further.
In summary, Wallbrook Primary Academy is a school that provides a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils. With strong leadership, a commitment to high standards, and a focus on community engagement, the school is well-positioned for continued success and improvement in the future.
