Inspectors visited Berrybrook Primary School, part of Perry Hall Multi Academy Trust, in September and, in their report published recently, highlighted its strong commitment to pupil wellbeing and how personal development and wellbeing sits at the centre of school life.
Children and young people are encouraged to become responsible citizens, showing kindness, mutual respect and a high level of understanding of diversity.
Inspectors found that pupils, including disadvantaged pupils, achieve well over time and ‘leave school well prepared for the next step in their education’ thanks to a focus on developing strong foundations in reading, writing and mathematics.
Berrybrook's early years provision is a particular strength. Children make a 'highly successful start' to school regardless of their background or starting points, benefiting from a 'strong emphasis on wellbeing and care'. Inspectors also found that staff show 'high levels of expertise' in teaching early reading and writing.
The report also recognises the school's inclusive culture, with leaders having 'worked hard to create an inclusive school where pupils feel welcome and supported'. Leaders and staff 'identify need quickly' and put support in place promptly, meaning 'pupils engage positively in their learning’.
Pupils benefit from a broad range of experiences beyond the classroom, including educational visits, leadership opportunities and enrichment activities that help them develop socially, culturally and emotionally.
Inspectors also praised the school's pastoral support, noting that trusted adults help ensure all pupils have fair and inclusive access to wider opportunities.
Ofsted concluded that Berrybrook Primary School has achieved Strong Standard in Early years and Personal development and wellbeing, and is at Expected Standard in Achievement, Attendance and behaviour, Curriculum and teaching, Inclusion, and Leadership and governance. Safeguarding standards were also met.
Headteacher Gary Darby said: "We are so incredibly proud of the hard work and commitment that has gone into making Berrybrook the very special place that it is by our amazing children, dedicated and had working staff and supportive families. Inspectors were particularly impressed by the children’s understanding of the school’s values, which are underpinned by the commitment of our staff team and wider school community.
“The report recognises that personal development and wellbeing are at the centre of our school’s ethos and values and that our children are developing a strong sense of responsibility and understand the importance of contributing to school and community life alongside staff.
“This success reflects the unwavering commitment of Berrybrook Primary School to ensure every pupil feels valued, supported and able to succeed. All of our staff are committed to our school and ensuring that our children achieve the very best outcomes possible. This is strengthened by the collaborative culture and shared expertise across Perry Hall Multi-Academy Trust.”
Assistant Headteacher and SENDCO Kayleigh Penny added: “We have a strong ethos about ensuring that children are at the centre of everything that we do and they are what makes school such a special place. We are extremely proud of them and how they show the real strengths within our community.”
Councillor Jacqui Coogan, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: "This is a very positive report which highlights the caring and supportive environment that Berrybrook has created for its pupils.
"Inspectors highlight real strengths in early years provision and personal development and wellbeing, with pupils supported not only to learn and achieve, but also to grow in confidence, build resilience and develop the skills they need for the future.
"They also recognises the dedication of staff in supporting pupils who may face additional challenges and ensuring they feel safe, valued and able to succeed. Everyone connected with Berrybrook should be proud of this outcome and the positive difference they are making to children's lives every day."
