Osborne Primary School, located in Erdington, Birmingham, has recently undergone an inspection that has resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The inspection took place on February 20 and 21, 2024, and evaluated various aspects of the school, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision, all of which were rated as good. The school is led by headteacher Lisa Dodd and is part of the Arthur Terry Learning Partnership, which provides additional support and oversight through its CEO Richard Gill and a board of trustees chaired by John Vickers.
The school is characterized by a strong commitment to the individual needs and interests of its pupils. Staff members are dedicated to creating a safe and nurturing environment where every child feels valued. This approach fosters a sense of belonging and encourages pupils to strive for their best. The curriculum has been recently revised and is designed to engage students in exciting learning experiences that align with high expectations for achievement. The school’s values, which include fairness, respect, forgiveness, courage, persistence, and self-control, are evident in the daily interactions between staff and pupils, promoting a culture of mutual respect.
Pupils at Osborne Primary demonstrate commendable behavior throughout the school day. They are polite, well-mannered, and exhibit a strong understanding of the expectations set by their teachers. The school has implemented effective strategies to support those who may struggle with behavior management, ensuring that learning is rarely disrupted. The environment is calm and conducive to learning, both in classrooms and during social interactions.
The leadership team has made significant strides in improving pupil outcomes, particularly in light of previous challenges at the end of key stage two. The introduction of a new curriculum and effective teaching practices have led to stronger progress for all pupils. However, as the new curriculum has only recently been fully implemented, some pupils still experience gaps in their knowledge. The school is actively working to address these gaps and ensure that all students can achieve their potential.
A new phonics scheme has been introduced, with staff receiving high-quality training to ensure consistent delivery across the school. This initiative has been particularly beneficial for pupils requiring additional support, as staff are quick to identify those in need and provide targeted interventions. The school’s library has been beautifully refurbished, offering a wide range of high-quality texts that reflect the diverse cultures represented within the school community.
Osborne Primary is also committed to inclusivity, effectively identifying and supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. The early years provision is characterized by engaging activities that promote language development and independence, fostering strong relationships with both children and their families.
While the school has high expectations for attendance, it acknowledges that there are still challenges in this area. Efforts are being made to encourage regular attendance and highlight the importance of being present for learning and social development.
The school emphasizes the importance of pupils becoming responsible and active citizens. Diversity is celebrated, and pupils are taught to respect differences among individuals. Opportunities for engagement with positive role models are provided, inspiring pupils to consider future career paths.
Overall, the staff at Osborne Primary are dedicated to achieving the school’s vision and aims, working collaboratively to create a supportive and effective learning environment. The commitment of the leadership team, alongside the support from the trust, has been instrumental in driving improvements and ensuring that the school continues to strive for excellence in education.
