Bradway Primary School, located in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 29 and 30, 2022. The school fosters a warm and friendly environment where pupils thrive. The motto, everyone's good at something, reflects the inclusive ethos of the school. Staff members are passionate and engaging, which contributes to pupils' enthusiasm for learning. Students take pride in their work and are eager to share their achievements, particularly in areas such as sports and drama. During the inspection, pupils were seen rehearsing for the school show, High School Musical, showcasing their excitement for performance. The school offers numerous extracurricular activities, including trips, such as a residential visit to Norfolk for Year 6 pupils, and an outdoor program known as forest school. These opportunities help build pupils' confidence and teach essential life skills, including communication and teamwork.
The school maintains high expectations for pupil behavior, resulting in calm and orderly lessons. While some pupils have reported experiences of bullying, such incidents are infrequent, and staff take such matters seriously, ensuring effective management of any issues. Pupils feel safe and happy at school, with access to trusted adults for support. The Reception Year is characterized by excellent care, with staff effectively teaching reading and vocabulary, preparing pupils well for Year 1. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive exceptional support, allowing them to learn successfully within this nurturing community.
Governors and leaders are dedicated to providing a high-quality education, investing in staff training, particularly in the science of learning. Leadership is strong across all levels, and staff feel confident in delivering the curriculum. Curriculum planning is detailed, with a clear understanding of what pupils need to learn to progress. In core subjects like mathematics and reading, teachers effectively use assessments to identify and address gaps in knowledge. However, assessment practices in foundation subjects are less effective, indicating an area for improvement.
Reading is a priority at Bradway Primary School, with staff well-trained to deliver early reading programs. Children begin learning to read in Reception Year, and most quickly become confident readers. Those who struggle receive support to catch up, fostering a culture of enthusiasm for reading. In Reception, staff intentionally enhance children's language knowledge through a variety of activities, ensuring they secure important knowledge in reading and mathematics.
Pupils with special educational needs receive excellent support, accessing the same curriculum as their peers. Disadvantaged pupils also learn well and feel supported. Classroom behavior is generally purposeful, with rare disruptions often stemming from overenthusiasm. Some pupils, however, do not attend school as regularly as they should, which affects their learning. Leaders are implementing effective strategies to improve attendance, which is gradually showing positive results.
Pupils learn about life in modern Britain through a comprehensive relationships, sex, and health education curriculum. They have opportunities to express their opinions and learn to respect differing views. The school promotes mental and physical health awareness and values diversity. A variety of clubs, including gardening and sports, are available, highlighting the importance placed on physical activity.
The safeguarding arrangements at Bradway Primary School are effective. Staff know pupils and their families well, fostering strong relationships that contribute to pupil safety. Concerns about pupil welfare are reported and acted upon promptly, with collaboration with external agencies when necessary. Overall, the school is committed to ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all pupils. Moving forward, the school aims to address attendance issues and enhance assessment practices in foundation subjects to maintain its good standing.
