Peel Park Primary School and Nursery, located in Bradford, West Yorkshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 10-11, 2020. The school is characterized by a respectful and safe environment where pupils enjoy attending. Staff members demonstrate a genuine care for students and their families, fostering a culture of high expectations. Recent improvements in the teaching of phonics and reading have been noted, with pupils understanding the significance of reading as a gateway to education. The school promotes good behavior among students, with minimal instances of bullying, and any occurrences are addressed promptly by adults. Pupils are taught to appreciate diversity and respect different beliefs and religions, contributing to a harmonious school atmosphere.
The school offers various enriching experiences, such as forest school activities and annual visits to the local cenotaph for Remembrance Day. Additionally, all pupils learn a musical instrument in Year 4. While attendance rates are improving, they remain low, with efforts in place to encourage regular attendance through rewards and incentives. The leadership team is committed to continuous improvement, working collaboratively to provide the best educational experience for all pupils. The school has seen an increase in student enrollment, particularly among those new to English, and teachers are dedicated to helping these pupils catch up in their learning, although some may not reach the expected standards by the end of key stage two.
The curriculum at Peel Park is well-structured and engaging, tailored to meet the needs of all pupils, including disadvantaged students who receive adequate support. Reading is prioritized, and the recent enhancements in phonics instruction have led to better outcomes for children in Reception. However, challenges remain, particularly regarding pupils' vocabulary and speaking skills, which can hinder their comprehension of reading materials. Leaders are actively working to address these issues.
Pupils express enjoyment in their learning experiences, attributing this to the engaging teaching methods employed by their instructors. The behavior of pupils is commendable, contributing to a conducive learning environment. Teachers are well-supported and able to focus on their responsibilities effectively, ensuring that pupils are at the center of their work. The curriculum is coherently planned, allowing for progressive learning across subjects, with strong teaching in mathematics that fosters reasoning and problem-solving skills.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive effective support, particularly through the school's Thrive unit, which caters to those with more complex needs. Early years children are happy and safe, benefiting from numerous opportunities for physical development and social skills enhancement. The school has made significant strides in improving attendance, although some families still take extended leave during term time, resulting in higher absence rates compared to national averages.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with a strong emphasis on protecting vulnerable children and families. Staff are well-trained to recognize and respond to safeguarding concerns, and pupils are educated on online safety and healthy relationships. The school is aware of areas needing improvement, particularly in the implementation of the curriculum across all subjects and the development of pupils' oracy skills. Leaders are committed to addressing these challenges to ensure that all pupils achieve their full potential. Overall, Peel Park Primary School and Nursery continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational environment for its pupils.
