Birches Green Primary School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is a good school The headteacher has addressed the areas for improvement identified at the last inspection with admirable directness. As a result, the quality of teaching and pupils' progress have markedly improved. Teachers set work that builds effectively on what pupils can already do.

They question pupils effectively to check their understanding and extend their thinking. Pupils' learning of mathematics in particular has advanced. They think about how they can answer questions, and can explain their approaches.

Phonics is taught well. In recent years, the proportion of pupils that have met the expected standard in the Year 1 phonics check has been at o...r above the national average. Leaders and governors have designed a strong curriculum, which ensures that pupils gain knowledge and skills effectively in many subjects.

Teaching in music requires improvement. Occasionally, the most able pupils complete too much routine work before moving on to tasks that really make them think. Pupils' attendance is improving, but remains below the national average.

Since the last inspection, the proportion of pupils attaining the expected standard in reading, writing and mathematics has been above average. Good teaching in the early years ensures that children make strong progress. Those who enter the school with lower starting points catch up quickly.

Safeguarding is effective. Staff know the pupils very well, and identify any concerns or additional needs promptly. They work resourcefully to overcome any obstacles to pupils' learning.

Pupils have very good attitudes towards school. They are enthusiastic learners who want to learn more. They behave consistently well in the classroom and the playground.

Middle leaders make an effective contribution to the running of the school. However, some do not have the strategic command of their area to enable them to contribute fully to its development. Training has enabled teaching assistants to enhance their skills.

However, on occasion they do not have the best possible impact on pupils' progress.

Information about this school

Birches Green Infant School is a little smaller than the average-sized primary school. Children attend full time in the Reception class, but most in the Nursery class attend only part time.

The school shares a site with Birches Green Junior School, to which most Year 2 pupils transfer. There is no official link between the two schools. A before- and after-school club operates on the school site.

It is not managed by the governors and is inspected separately. The proportion of disadvantaged pupils is above average. The proportion of pupils with SEND is above average.

The proportion of pupils who speak English as an additional language is above average and rising. A very few pupils currently attend the Ashbourne Centre within the City of Birmingham School full time. The alternative provision is to help to address their emotional and behavioural needs.

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