Cantrell Primary and Nursery School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is a good school Since the last inspection, leaders, supported by the dedicated staff, have taken decisive action to bring about swift improvements.

The school's curriculum is designed to provide pupils with a wealth of opportunities they may not typically encounter. Leaders are keen to raise the aspirations of families for their children. The development of pupils' spiritual, moral, social and cultural education (SMSC) is a strength.

Pupils are encouraged to think philosophically about their own and different cultures and faiths. They receive a wide range of opportunities to appreciate the arts. Leaders have taken effective action to improve rates of att...endance.

The proportion of pupils who are persistently absent has fallen significantly. Parents and carers understand the importance of regular attendance. Governors are determined to provide the best possible education for pupils from the early years and onwards.

However, their understanding of how actions are bringing about improvements is not yet comprehensive. Middle leaders are determined to provide strong leadership of their subject. While some have been highly effective in driving change, others do not yet have the skills to make improvements across the whole school.

Arrangements for safeguarding pupils are secure. Adults have a comprehensive understanding of the risks that pupils may face and leaders train staff to be professionally suspicious. Teachers have high expectations of pupils.

They use questioning skilfully to develop pupils' knowledge and understanding. Teachers deploy other adults well to enhance learning. Generally, teachers use assessment information well to set challenging tasks that will meet the needs of pupils.

Occasionally, next steps are not planned sharply enough to meet the needs of a few pupils. Pupils are confident, independent, and self-assured learners. They take pride in their work and express their views well.

They behave well. Pupils who struggle to manage their behaviour receive support to enable them to understand their emotions. However, occasionally leaders have not evaluated sharply enough the support provided for these pupils to ensure that it meets their academic needs.

In the early years, staff understand the value of a language-rich environment. Occasionally, adults stick too rigidly to the planned intent of activities and do not adapt their approach when children take learning in a different direction.

Information about this school

The majority of the pupils are White British.

However, 11 other ethnic groups are also represented. The school is situated within an area of high deprivation. The proportion of pupils eligible for free school meals is above the national average.

The proportion of pupils with SEND is below the national average. The school is a larger-than-average primary school. The school has a Nursery provision which takes children from the age of two.