Brindle St James' Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School

Overview

This small primary school is described as having a “big heart,” where pupils are “well cared for” and “happy.” Leaders have established a nurturing culture where attendance is “well above the national average” and behaviour is excellent, with bullying being “rare.” The early years provision is particularly strong, providing a “firm foundation” for future learning.

Strengths

• Attendance rates are “well above the national average” due to leaders’ vigilance in removing barriers to regular attendance.
• Pupils demonstrate “excellent behaviour and dedication to learning,” with older pupils acting as positive role models for younger peers.
• Children in the early years “thrive under the expert guidance of staff,” benefiting from “warm and trusting relationships” and a meticulously crafted curriculum.
• Attainment in reading is “particularly impressive,” and pupils of all ages articulate their understanding with “increasing confidence and eloquence” following the introduction of oracy.
• Parents and carers are “exceedingly positive” about their children’s experiences and feel valued as part of the school community.

Areas to improve

• Leaders should ensure staff have clarity on what pupils of different ages should know in every subject, as “less clarity” in some key stages 1 and 2 subjects hinders the design of effective learning activities.

Safeguarding

The safeguarding standards are met, with leaders establishing an “open culture in which safeguarding is everyone's responsibility” and concerns are actively identified and managed.