Perryfields Academy, located in Oldbury, West Midlands, has undergone an ungraded inspection on July 9 and 10, 2024. The overall judgement remains good, although evidence suggests that a graded inspection might yield a lower rating. The headteacher, Clare Harris, leads the school, which is part of the Broadleaf Partnership Trust, overseen by CEO Claire Pritchard and chaired by Neil Turner. The school is characterized by a warm and welcoming environment where pupils are at the center of its values, which include aspiration, support, collaboration, and focus.
Students express happiness and safety within the school, highlighting positive changes such as the new behaviour policy. While the school maintains high expectations for its pupils, these are not consistently met, as evidenced by underachievement in some areas. Positive relationships between staff and students are evident, fostering an atmosphere of respect and tolerance. Pupils feel they can express themselves freely, contributing to a calm and orderly environment. The school promotes personal, emotional, and social development through initiatives like the Perryfields Promise, which includes opportunities for public speaking, trips, and creative productions.
The curriculum has been thoughtfully redesigned, with leaders identifying key knowledge and skills for pupils to acquire. This is particularly evident in subjects like English and history, though mathematics is still developing in this regard. Teachers generally possess strong subject knowledge and present information clearly, but inconsistencies in teaching quality lead to varied learning experiences. Some pupils may not have the necessary foundational knowledge before progressing to new topics, which can hinder their overall progress.
The school has established strategies for curriculum implementation, but not all teachers apply these methods effectively, resulting in variable retention of knowledge among pupils. Students with special educational needs and disabilities are supported well, particularly those with education, health, and care plans. The school is working to enhance support for those without such plans. Reading is a priority, with targeted interventions for pupils who struggle, particularly those who are disadvantaged or have special educational needs.
Behaviour has improved significantly, with high expectations set for student conduct. The school celebrates good behaviour through various rewards and events, fostering a culture of kindness and respect. A wide range of extracurricular activities is available, helping pupils develop essential life skills and prepare for future educational steps. Staff express pride in their work and appreciate the support provided by the school regarding their workload and well-being.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. However, the school must address the need for consistent checks on pupil understanding before advancing to new topics, as this can lead to gaps in knowledge and unaddressed misconceptions. Additionally, there is a need for teachers to utilize appropriate teaching methods to enhance learning outcomes. Overall, while Perryfields Academy demonstrates many strengths, there are areas for improvement that require attention to ensure all pupils achieve their full potential.
