Bury and Whitefield Jewish Primary School, located in Unsworth, Bury, Lancashire, underwent an inspection on March 15 and 16, 2022. The school received an overall effectiveness rating of good, reflecting significant improvements since its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good.
The school is characterized by high expectations set by its leaders for both learning and behavior. Pupils express enjoyment in attending school and value their friendships. They demonstrate good behavior and report feeling happy and safe within the school environment. Instances of conflict among pupils are addressed promptly by staff, who effectively manage any bullying or inappropriate behavior. Pupils feel confident in approaching adults with any concerns they may have.
The school promotes a strong understanding of British values alongside Jewish traditions. Pupils engage in learning about various cultural celebrations, including Christmas, Diwali, and Chinese New Year, fostering respect and tolerance for diverse beliefs. The school emphasizes experiences beyond the academic curriculum, such as a recent residential trip aimed at enhancing resilience and teamwork. Early years pupils show enthusiasm for outdoor activities, such as observing signs of spring during nature walks.
Pupils, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds and those with special educational needs and disabilities, achieve well and are well-prepared for secondary education. The curriculum is ambitious, relevant, and designed to meet the needs of all pupils. Governors play an active role in reviewing educational quality and support school leaders in monitoring pupil achievement across the curriculum.
In early years, the curriculum is carefully structured to lay a solid foundation for future learning. Subject leaders in key stages one and two have thoughtfully planned the teaching of new content, ensuring that pupils build on prior knowledge. However, there are some areas where the important knowledge that pupils need to learn is not as clearly defined, which can lead to gaps in understanding. Leaders are encouraged to refine these curriculum areas to ensure that teachers have the necessary information to assess pupil learning effectively.
Staff receive ongoing training to enhance their leadership skills and to identify additional needs among pupils. The school provides effective support for pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they have access to the same curriculum as their peers. The phonics and early reading programs are well-structured, with a focus on developing children's speaking skills from the start of their education. Assessment systems are in place to support pupils who struggle with reading, helping them to catch up with their classmates.
Pupils are polite and well-mannered, with a strong emphasis on good behavior instilled from an early age. The curriculum also addresses various family structures and relationships, promoting an understanding of individual uniqueness and the importance of mental and physical health. Many pupils participate in sports and creative clubs, contributing to their overall development.
Staff express satisfaction with their work environment, appreciating the support and training provided to fulfill their roles effectively. The school has established a robust culture of safeguarding, with staff trained to recognize and respond to potential concerns. The school collaborates with various agencies to ensure timely support for families and pupils. Overall, Bury and Whitefield Jewish Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and a supportive environment for all its pupils.
