Wibsey Primary School, located in Bradford, West Yorkshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on April 25 and 26, 2023. The school fosters a safe and welcoming environment where staff maintain high expectations for pupil behavior and attitudes. The behavior observed during lessons is calm and focused, with pupils showing enthusiasm for learning. Instances of bullying are rare, and the school promotes respect and care among students from diverse backgrounds.
The leadership team has prioritized the early years, ensuring that children receive a strong foundation for their education. The early years classrooms and outdoor areas are well-equipped, allowing children to quickly learn routines and develop positive habits. They are taught good manners and engage in cooperative play. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive excellent support, with staff effectively addressing their individual needs through clear targets and strategies.
The school features a welcoming library that highlights local Bradford architecture, helping pupils connect with their community and appreciate its history. The curriculum also includes learning about various cultures and faiths, with music playing a significant role in school life. All pupils are encouraged to learn an instrument, enriching their educational experience.
Wibsey Primary School excels in its reading program, with staff trained to deliver a high-quality reading scheme. Books are carefully matched to the sounds pupils know, facilitating quick reading development. Daily interventions are in place to assist those needing extra help. The curriculum is designed to revisit knowledge, although some subjects lack clarity regarding the essential content pupils should learn and the timeline for this learning. While staff possess strong subject knowledge, there is inconsistency in checking pupils' understanding of key concepts.
Pupils with special educational needs follow the same curriculum as their peers and are actively involved in school life, participating in clubs and residential trips. The school has a dedicated intervention room, known as The Haven, where additional support is provided for pupils needing extra help in subjects like mathematics.
The early years curriculum effectively prepares children for Year 1, with well-planned teacher-led sessions in mathematics and phonics. Staff focus on developing vocabulary and encourage children to practice using new words. The school has invested in high-quality resources to enhance learning experiences.
Wibsey Primary School offers a robust personal development curriculum, teaching pupils about fairness, online safety, and healthy relationships. The school also emphasizes decision-making and habit formation, preparing students for life in modern Britain. A variety of clubs, including choir and fencing, are available, and field trips enhance the curriculum by providing real-world learning experiences.
Leadership and governance are strong, with clear priorities for further development. Middle leadership is improving, and staff appreciate the training and collaborative opportunities provided. Most staff feel their workload is manageable, and leaders are praised for their support of staff well-being.
The safeguarding arrangements at Wibsey Primary School are effective, with staff trained to identify risks and report concerns. Pupils feel safe and know they have trusted adults to turn to. The school conducts thorough checks to ensure the safety of staff and visitors.
While the school is performing well, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that the most important knowledge is clearly identified and assessed across all subjects. Overall, Wibsey Primary School continues to provide a good education and a supportive environment for its pupils.
