Firs Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 14 June 2022

Firs Primary School is an inclusive, happy and welcoming school. The 'Firsy five' values are at the heart of everything staff and pupils do. Staff and pupils ensure that everyone, including those who are new to the country, feel safe and welcomed. There is a range of effective support for pupils who may require it. Pupils speak positively about going to 'The Orchard' when they feel they need some extra help. This is a school that cares for all. Pupils understand the school's rules and values. They behave well and are kind to each other. Pupils understand the different forms that bullying can take. They say that bullying is rare. If it happens, staff resolve issues quickly. Leaders are ambitious that all pupils will achieve well. This includes those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Pupils enjoy their lessons. They want to do their best and want to learn. Pupils who speak English as an additional language receive effective support and achieve well. Staff go out of their way to support pupils and their families. One parent summed up how many parents and carers feel: 'All staff contribute to treating both parents and children with a pleasant and compassionate nature.'

What the school should improve

• In some subjects within the wider curriculum, staff do not use assessment information well enough to check what pupils understand. As a result, some pupils have gaps in their knowledge. Teachers need to check what pupils know and can do when implementing the curriculum and ensure that there are regular opportunities to recall prior learning in order to ensure that pupils are learning and remembering all the essential knowledge they need.
• The number of pupils who are regularly absent from school has reduced recently. However, the proportion of pupils who are regularly absent remains high. Leaders should continue with their work to reduce this further.

Read the full Ofsted report (opens in a new tab)