We are extremely pleased that the inspection report from the visit that took place on Wednesday 1st and Thursday 2nd May 2024 recognises the improvement from the previous report, for Northbrook Primary School (prior to joining Endeavour Learning Trust), when the school was judged inadequate in all areas. We are also pleased that the inspectors recognised that school leaders fully understand what needs to be done to continue the clear improvement journey. This is testament to the care and commitment of our staff, the wider staff within Endeavour Learning Trust, your continued support as parents, and of course, a celebration of our wonderful children.
The Ofsted report recognises that Northbrook Primary Academy is a ‘caring school’, where ‘everyone is made to feel welcome’ and the ‘children are happy in school’. The report describes relationships between the children and staff as ‘respectful and supportive’ and that ‘behaviour across the school is positive’. Our new curriculum is described as being ‘ambitious’ and with a clear ‘intent’. Furthermore, it states that ‘children with SEND receive the support that they need so they can access the full curriculum.’
With the nature of a succinct report there were also points raised by the inspectors during the two days that have perhaps not been fully captured. During the inspection process the inspectors commented upon the very effective and robust safeguarding processes across the school. They recognised that the school’s forensic approach to behaviour had established clear routines, creating an environment where children are motivated to learn in lessons and display positive behaviours during breaks and lunchtimes. They spoke about the positive impact of the school’s HEART values and how our children know that it is ok to be different and are respectful and empathetic of others. They stated that the school’s steady improvement has been managed by leaders in the correct order, establishing the positive culture and ethos first, and in a way that the change is sustainable. They commended leaders for their professionalism and refreshing honesty. During the final feedback session, the lead inspector spoke passionately about the warmth of the school and how he would be very happy for his own children to attend our school!
To continue this positive direction of travel, we will endeavour to make the required improvements identified in the report and from our own evaluation. The work to further improve the quality of education is ongoing and we are laser focused on developing our children to be more confident readers. In addition, subject leaders will continue to take an increased ownership of their subject areas and will further develop enrichment opportunities to support learning. As we regularly review our new curriculum, we are confident that the impact will be our children knowing and remembering more.
We would like to thank all our children for being exceptional ambassadors for our school; the staff for their hard work and professionalism; the parents who either spoke with inspectors or provided feedback online; the Trustees and Local Academy Councillors for their continued guidance and the Executive Leadership Team for their support and direction – it is a strong and wonderfully dedicated team!
The Ofsted report following the inspection that took place on Wednesday 1st and Thursday 2nd May 2024 can be accessed below.
Ofsted Reports
A link to the Ofsted website can be accessed below:
Northbrook Primary Academy - Open - Find an Inspection Report - Ofsted
