Keelham Primary School, located in Bradford, West Yorkshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 13, 2023. The school embodies the values of kindness, perseverance, and success, which are evident in the respectful and polite manner in which pupils greet visitors. The atmosphere within the school is calm and orderly, with pupils demonstrating a clear understanding of expected behavior. Instances of bullying and poor behavior are reported to be rare, and pupils express confidence that staff would address any issues promptly.
The leadership and staff at Keelham Primary School are committed to providing a high-quality education. They maintain high expectations for pupil achievement across a broad curriculum that extends beyond academics. The school offers various extracurricular activities, including an annual choir concert, which fosters a sense of community and pride among pupils. Parents and carers express their appreciation for the care and attention their children receive, actively participating in school events and fundraising activities.
The headteacher, appointed in January 2021, has implemented a strategic plan to enhance the school's provision. Leaders have carefully considered the qualities they wish to instill in pupils, such as confidence and self-assurance. The curriculum is well-structured, allowing teachers to effectively deliver lessons that build pupils' knowledge progressively. Pupils engage enthusiastically in their learning, particularly in subjects like mathematics and geography, and demonstrate a solid understanding of the material.
Reading is a central focus of the curriculum, with staff trained in phonics instruction. A structured program is in place, and additional support is provided for pupils with special educational needs and those who speak English as an additional language. While most pupils exhibit good phonics knowledge, some younger pupils struggle with reading independently due to a mismatch between their reading materials and their phonics knowledge. This reliance on adult support indicates an area for improvement.
As pupils advance through the school, they encounter increasingly complex texts that stimulate their interests and broaden their horizons. The school library is inviting, with a variety of books that encourage a love for reading. From the early years, children are introduced to songs, rhymes, and stories, laying a strong foundation for their reading skills. Regular assessments help identify pupils who may need additional support, ensuring that all children can progress effectively.
The school prioritizes the wider development of pupils, encouraging their voices to be heard through initiatives like class ambassadors. Opportunities for extracurricular engagement, including residential trips and after-school clubs, are available to all pupils. The respectful relationships between staff and pupils contribute to a positive learning environment, with parents acknowledging the high expectations set for behavior.
Governance at Keelham Primary School is strong, with governors maintaining a supportive relationship with the headteacher. They are well-informed about the school's strengths and areas for development, actively participating in the school's progress. Staff well-being is also a priority, with efforts made to reduce workload and support staff.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with leaders ensuring that staff are well-trained to identify and address safeguarding concerns. Pupils feel safe and supported, learning about personal safety through various educational programs. Overall, Keelham Primary School continues to provide a nurturing and effective educational environment, with clear areas identified for further improvement, particularly in aligning reading materials with pupils' phonics abilities.
