Greysbrooke Primary School, located in Shenstone, Lichfield, Staffordshire, has recently undergone an inspection by Ofsted on the 28th and 29th of November 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school has been rated as good, with specific areas such as the quality of education, leadership and management, and early years provision receiving outstanding ratings. The headteacher, Eleanor Ballinger, leads the school, which is part of The Arthur Terry Learning Partnership, overseen by CEO Richard Gill and a board of trustees chaired by John Vickers.
The inspection marks the first routine evaluation of Greysbrooke Primary School since it became an academy, following a period of exemption from routine inspections. The report reflects the current inspection framework and considers any changes since the last graded inspection of the predecessor school.
Pupils at Greysbrooke Primary School express high levels of enjoyment in their educational experience. The school fosters a welcoming environment, with warm greetings exchanged among staff, parents, and pupils each morning. The school promotes a culture of nurturing, inspiring, and encouraging pupils to strive for their best selves. High expectations are set for all students, who respond positively by engaging attentively in lessons and assisting peers during lunchtime. The school prioritizes pupil safety, ensuring that trusted adults are available to address any concerns.
The school offers a diverse range of opportunities for pupils, including the chance to vote for school councillors and participate in various clubs. Pupils are also encouraged to learn musical instruments, and older students are eagerly anticipating an upcoming trip to France. Parents have expressed strong support for the school, highlighting the dedication of the staff to their roles and the positive impact they have on students.
Leadership at Greysbrooke Primary School is described as inspirational, with a clear commitment to the success of all pupils. The curriculum is ambitious and inclusive, with a well-defined structure that outlines what pupils need to learn and when. Staff members are skilled in delivering the curriculum consistently, making necessary adaptations for students with special educational needs and disabilities. This approach ensures that all pupils achieve well and learn collaboratively.
The curriculum is organized meticulously, allowing pupils to retain knowledge and build upon previous learning. For instance, Year 6 pupils demonstrate impressive reasoning skills in history, while younger students in music and design technology show remarkable engagement and skill development. The school places a strong emphasis on reading, beginning in Reception, with explicit vocabulary teaching and effective phonics instruction. All staff are well-trained in delivering the phonics program, resulting in successful reading outcomes for all pupils.
Recently, the school has introduced electronic tablets for all students, enhancing learning through technology while ensuring that adaptations are available for those who need them. Clear behavioral expectations contribute to a positive atmosphere, with pupils demonstrating respect and empathy towards one another. Older students take on responsibilities, such as running a reading café, and participate in various clubs that foster their interests and talents.
Despite these strengths, the school recognizes the need to enhance pupils' roles and opportunities to impact their school and community positively. The support from the multi-academy trust has been crucial in driving improvements, with trustees actively engaging with the school to support and challenge leadership effectively. Overall, Greysbrooke Primary School is committed to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive environment for all its pupils.
