Birchfield Primary School has been rated as ‘Good’ in all areas following an inspection which took place this Autumn. The report praises the staff at Birchfield who “build caring and positive relationships with children as soon as children join early years”.
In the report, Inspectors were impressed with the high expectations of both staff and pupils, who were described as ‘happy and confident’ individuals. The strengths of teaching and curriculum were clear with the report noting that ‘Pupils achieve well in English, mathematics and science because these subjects are structured and taught well’.
Inspectors also highlighted the wealth of enrichment on offer for pupils, who have ‘lots of opportunities to take part in clubs, visits and events’. The report continues that ‘These activities add greatly’ to what children learn in lessons.
In the Early Years, Inspectors celebrated how quickly children settle ‘due to the calm, welcoming environment and attentive staff’ and the Early Years ensures ‘that children enjoy school, make friends, and explore and play safely’.
There was clear recognition of the excellent behaviour of pupils in lessons and around the school. Inspectors were also impressed with the safeguarding arrangements at Birchfield, with the report referencing the effectiveness of these and the regular training and updates provided to staff to ensure that knowledge is up to date. It was clear that pupils are taught to keep themselves safe through the curriculum.
The school leadership was celebrated with the report citing that ‘Leaders have devised an ambitious and well-sequenced curriculum so that pupils gain a broad and balanced education’. Equally it was noted that ‘Staff value the approachability and aid of the senior leadership team’.
The outcome marks a significant milestone for Birchfield, having previously been rated as ‘Inadequate’ before joining Prince Albert Community Trust in 2018. The report noted that ‘The trust and local academy committee provide good levels of challenge and support’.
On receiving the Ofsted grading, Mrs Z Thewlis, Head of School at Birchfield Primary wrote “I am pleased to share that Birchfield was graded as a ‘good’ school in all areas. The report recognises the many positive aspects of the provision at Birchfield. The outcome of the inspection is a significant achievement for our school. It reflects the journey of school improvement that has taken place over the last four years, irrespective of the considerable challenges we have faced. I am sure you will join me in being extremely proud of our school, our staff and our children who have so much to celebrate. Thank for your continued support”.
CEO or Prince Albert Community Trust, Mr Sajid Gulzar OBE said “The inspection grade is testament to the hard work of the staff, pupils and parents and it is exciting to see the school continuing to go from strength to strength under the excellent leadership of Mrs Zoe Thewlis and her team”.