Frizinghall Primary School, located in Bradford, West Yorkshire, has undergone a recent inspection that highlighted its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on the 2nd and 3rd of March 2022, marking a significant improvement from its previous grade of requires improvement. The school is characterized by a positive atmosphere where pupils express their love for attending and take pride in their school. The relationships between staff and pupils are respectful and supportive, contributing to a conducive learning environment.
Leaders at Frizinghall Primary School demonstrate ambition and high expectations for student achievement. They have carefully designed the curriculum by considering the community and the views of pupils. This thoughtful approach has resulted in pupils being highly engaged in their learning, with a strong desire to succeed. The school community, including parents and staff, reports that behavior is generally good, and instances of bullying are rare. When bullying does occur, pupils are aware of the appropriate steps to take, and staff are well-trained to manage behavior effectively. The inspectors observed calm behavior in classrooms, and pupils feel safe at school.
Parents have expressed overwhelming positivity towards the school, appreciating its commitment to high standards and the support provided during the pandemic. The feedback from parents indicates a strong belief in the school's dedication to the well-being and success of their children. The school has also prioritized reading, with a structured phonics program in place that begins as soon as children start school. Staff are well-trained in teaching phonics, ensuring that pupils develop strong reading skills from an early age. The reading curriculum is sequenced to build knowledge over time, and support is readily available for those who fall behind.
The mathematics curriculum is equally ambitious, with a coherent sequence that builds on prior knowledge. Pupils demonstrate a wide range of mathematical understanding and competence. In the early years, children engage in a variety of activities that promote language, reading, and number skills, fostering curiosity and a love for learning. The school is inclusive, providing strong support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Their needs are identified early, and tailored support is implemented effectively.
Frizinghall Primary School also encourages pupils to contribute to the school community through various roles, such as safety ambassadors and friendship buddies. The school has plans to reinstate a range of after-school opportunities that were affected by the pandemic, aiming to enhance the overall experience for pupils. The leadership team, including governors, has shown determination in driving improvements since the last inspection, effectively utilizing the talents of staff and developing subject leadership.
While the school has made significant strides, there are areas for further development. Some subject leaders need to enhance their monitoring of curriculum impact to ensure continuous improvement. Leaders are encouraged to share best practices among subject leaders and provide the necessary support for effective monitoring and evaluation.
The safeguarding arrangements at Frizinghall Primary School are robust, with staff trained to identify and address risks effectively. Pupils are educated on safety in various contexts, including online safety. Overall, Frizinghall Primary School is a thriving educational institution that prioritizes the well-being and success of its pupils while fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment.