St Paul’s CofE Primary School, located in Buttershaw, Bradford, is recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 11-12, 2020. The school provides a safe and nurturing environment where pupils feel secure and valued. Parents and carers express high levels of satisfaction, noting that their children are happy, safe, and receive quality education. Instances of bullying are infrequent, and when they do occur, they are addressed promptly and effectively.
The curriculum at St Paul’s is designed to broaden pupils’ understanding of the world, incorporating lessons on various faiths and cultures. The school promotes values such as tolerance, respect, and kindness, which contribute to positive behavior among students. The adults in the school serve as effective role models, fostering strong relationships with pupils. This supportive atmosphere encourages positive attitudes towards learning, enabling students to make significant progress.
Reading is a key focus at St Paul’s, with a systematic approach to phonics instruction starting in the early years. The staff are skilled in identifying and addressing individual needs, ensuring that all pupils receive the necessary support to succeed. As a result, a high percentage of students pass the phonics screening check. The school cultivates a love for reading through diverse literature and encourages parental involvement in reading activities at home.
Mathematics instruction is well-structured, allowing pupils to develop their skills coherently. Teachers employ various strategies to assess understanding and tailor activities to meet individual needs. However, there are occasions when the most able pupils are not sufficiently challenged, which can hinder their progress. The history curriculum is also improving, with a clear and sequenced approach to learning. Nonetheless, some teachers provide excessive support to certain pupils, which can impede independent thinking and slow progress.
The school effectively supports lower-attaining pupils and those with special educational needs and disabilities in both mathematics and history. The wider curriculum offers engaging activities that enhance pupils’ understanding of the world beyond the classroom. Staff members feel valued and report that their opinions are considered, leading to improved systems and reduced workloads.
The safeguarding measures in place are robust, with thorough checks conducted on all adults working in the school. Staff receive appropriate training, and the school collaborates with external agencies to ensure the safety and well-being of all pupils.
To enhance its performance, the school should focus on providing more opportunities for independent learning, particularly in history and mathematics, where the most able pupils need greater challenges. Additionally, it is essential to maintain high expectations for productivity and presentation across all subjects, ensuring consistency in standards.
Overall, St Paul’s CofE Primary School continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing a high-quality education in a supportive and safe environment. The school’s strengths in reading and mathematics, along with its effective safeguarding practices, contribute to its positive reputation within the community. The ongoing efforts to improve the curriculum and teaching practices will further enhance the educational experience for all pupils.
