Coventry school that ‘welcomes all nationalities’ praised by Ofsted

A primary school in Coventry where everyone is valued as a ‘member of the school family’ which places ‘inclusivity at the heart of everything it does’ has received praise from Ofsted. Pupils are ‘eager to share their pride’ at John Gulson Primary School on George Street in Hillfields.

Inspectors visited the school on Tuesday, June 11 and Wednesday, June 12. The school received an overall ‘Good’ rating’ following a ‘requires improvement’ from the previous inspection grading.

Inspectors say ‘a warm welcome awaits’ as you enter the school with ‘happy and smiley faces’ everywhere’. The school welcomes pupils from all nationalities, where one pupil said ‘we are proud of our diversity’, where they also feel safe, and happy and do not see bullying as an issue.

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The school is described as ‘calm and orderly’ where behavior in lessons and at other times is good. Pupils listen well to adults and each other and are ambitious for everyone, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities. The school maximizes every opportunity to raise pupils’ expectations and life experience, which in turn they achieve well.

Inspectors added that John Gulson recognizes the diverse needs of his community and ‘works relentlessly’ to meet these needs. The school has designed the curriculum to enrich pupils’ lives and give them the skills and knowledge they need to succeed. The curriculum is planned in a logical sequence to help pupils build on past knowledge and make links between learning,

Attractive displays, including work from all pupils, helps them learn and consolidate learning. Art galleries in corridors celebrate the developing skills and talents of all pupils, whereas outdoor learning sessions enhance many aspects of the curriculum, including developing vocabulary and social skills.

Teachers know what they should teach and how the curriculum develops over time. This helps staff teach well and adapt their learning successfully to meet the needs of pupils, including those with SEND. Support staff skillfully transfer from a pupils’ home learning to English which helps the students who speak English as a second language access the learning, and quickly learn to speak and understand English.

Reading is prioritized by the school, as there are books ‘everywhere’ which cover a range of themes and issues. The teaching of early reading starts in the nursery with stories and rhymes. The school follows its chosen phonic scheme faithfully, with staff receiving training and access to ongoing support to help teach phonics well. Pupils enjoy reading and learn to read with increasing confidence, fluency, and understanding.

On the other hand, pupils with SEND receive strong support. The school identifies and meets their needs quickly, and those who spend time with ‘Nest or Nestlings’ receive effective personalized support. This ensures pupils are happy, safe, and thriving, and they are ready for the next stage in their education.

In addition, inspectors say personal development provision is ‘exemplary’. The school has developed a strong personal, social, health, and education curriculum, including the teaching of protected characteristics. The wealth of clubs, visitors, and visits carefully planned by the school enriches pupils’ lives, talents, and aspirations.

Pupils have an excellent understanding of fundamental British values ​​and relates them to school values. They also learn about different religions and places of worship, and the school prepares pupils well for life in today’s world.

To view the full Ofsted report and previous inspections at John Gulson Primary School, visit the Ofsted website.

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