Gleadless Primary School, located in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, underwent an inspection on March 15 and 16, 2022. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as requiring improvement, with the quality of education also marked as requiring improvement. However, the school demonstrated good performance in areas such as behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The previous inspection in September 2017 had rated the school as good.
Pupils at Gleadless Primary School are motivated to excel, showing enthusiasm for learning and a desire to do their best for their teachers and themselves. They particularly enjoy reading, with their achievements celebrated in assemblies that reward their successes. The school’s core values are well understood by the pupils, who recognize their importance in contributing positively to school life. The behavior rules are perceived as fair, and while instances of bullying do occur, pupils trust that staff will address these issues effectively.
The curriculum includes lessons on Christian and Muslim ceremonies, promoting fairness and respect among pupils. Activities such as a residential trip to Thornbridge, where pupils engaged in cycling and high ropes, further enrich their educational experience. Digital leaders within the school play a crucial role in promoting online safety, helping their peers understand the risks associated with the internet.
Parents have expressed satisfaction with recent changes in the school, noting improvements in communication and the enjoyment their children derive from after-school clubs like football and cross-country running. The school has made strides in enhancing reading instruction, with teachers receiving adequate training. Younger children are introduced to new sounds earlier, leading to improved reading skills. Support is provided for pupils who require additional help, ensuring they can keep pace with their peers.
In mathematics, the curriculum is well-structured, but there are concerns regarding the time allocated for practice during lessons. Some pupils struggle with accuracy in their calculations, and teachers do not consistently check for understanding, which can lead to repeated mistakes. The leader for special educational needs has implemented positive changes, providing tailored support for pupils with additional needs.
While the curriculum is generally well-planned, there are instances where teachers do not adhere to the planned content, particularly in subjects like history. This inconsistency can lead to confusion among pupils regarding what they are learning. In the early years, the curriculum is engaging and effectively prepares children for Year 1, with a focus on vocabulary development and social skills.
Leaders are committed to supporting families and improving attendance by emphasizing the importance of regular school attendance. Pupils are encouraged to stay active and participate in sports competitions, with initiatives promoting healthy eating habits. The school has undergone changes in its leadership structure, with governors actively involved in monitoring improvements and ensuring high standards across the curriculum.
The safeguarding arrangements at Gleadless Primary School are effective, with leaders identifying potential risks and providing necessary support to families. Staff are trained to recognize vulnerable pupils and understand the associated risks. The school has also enhanced its online safety curriculum to better equip pupils for the digital world.
In summary, Gleadless Primary School is making progress in several areas, but there are key aspects that require attention to ensure a consistently high-quality education for all pupils. The commitment of staff and leaders to improve the school environment and educational outcomes is evident, and with continued focus on curriculum delivery and assessment practices, the school can work towards achieving its ambitious goals.
