A Birmingham primary school has been named among the best in the region after receiving a glowing Ofsted report. Inspectors said they were impressed with all aspects of Northfield Manor Primary Academy in Weoley Castle.
The school was handed new 'strong standard' ratings across all seven areas inspected during a recent visit. This signals the education watchdog is extremely happy with performance across all areas, putting it among the best in the region. 'Strong standard' is only one below the top rating of 'exceptional', though this is only handed to schools on rare occasions.
Recent changes to Ofsted inspections now see grades awarded across a range of areas and single-word overall ratings like 'outstanding' and 'inadequate' ditched. Northfield Manor was rated as 'strong standard' in the following areas: achievement; attendance and behaviour; curriculum and teaching; early years; inclusion; leadership and governance; and personal development and wellbeing.
Ofsted's report said: "Pupils achieve well across the school. From the early years onwards, they build secure foundational knowledge because routines are well established and activities are matched carefully to their needs. As pupils move through the school, they apply what they know confidently. Pupils achieve very well compared to their peers nationally. Their outcomes in national tests reflect the impact of leaders' work."
It continued: "Leaders take a proactive and inclusive approach to attendance. They understand the barriers that some pupils face and work closely with families to reduce these. Staff know pupils well and maintain regular contact with parents and carers, which helps identify concerns early. Leaders use information from behaviour and safeguarding systems to support pupils whose attendance may be at risk. Pupils attend regularly and understand why being in school every day matters for their learning."
