St Peter’s Church of England Voluntary Aided Junior, Infant and Early Years School in Birstall, West Yorkshire, has been rated as good in its recent inspection. The school demonstrates high expectations for pupil learning and experiences, ensuring that students feel safe and happy. Pupils are aware that they can approach trusted adults with any concerns, fostering a supportive environment. The school emphasizes positive relationships, with staff serving as excellent role models and providing strong pastoral support.
Behavioural expectations are high, and pupils generally behave well. When behaviour does not meet these expectations, staff guide pupils to reflect and make better choices. Instances of bullying are rare, and when they occur, staff address them promptly. The curriculum is designed to broaden pupils' learning experiences, incorporating visits and guest speakers to connect learning with real-world applications. For instance, a cartographer visited to discuss the relevance of geography.
Leaders have engaged in curriculum training with external experts, resulting in a well-sequenced and purposeful curriculum. Pupils are encouraged to make connections in their learning, reflecting on prior knowledge and engaging in discussions that deepen their understanding. The curriculum is inclusive, effectively supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. However, some areas, particularly in the wider curriculum subjects like history, contain an overwhelming amount of information, making it challenging for pupils to retain key knowledge.
Reading is a priority at the school, with adults delivering sessions that help pupils read independently and confidently. Books are well-matched to pupils' abilities, allowing for effective practice and comprehension development. Regular assessments help identify pupils who may be falling behind, enabling timely intervention through additional support sessions.
In early years, the focus is on developing communication and language skills through skilled interactions and prompts from adults. While most activities are well-planned, some independent learning opportunities could be more focused to enhance children's learning outcomes. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports and music, with a choir that has performed in the community.
Pupils are encouraged to take on leadership roles, such as participating in the school council and eco-council, which helps them understand the impact of their actions on the community. They learn about safety, including internet and road safety, equipping them with essential skills to protect themselves.
Governors are actively involved in the school, holding regular meetings and engaging with staff and pupils to ensure effective governance. They challenge and support school leaders to identify areas for improvement. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, creating a culture that prioritizes pupil welfare.
To improve, the school should focus on refining independent learning activities in early years to ensure they are consistently targeted towards children's learning needs. Additionally, the school needs to clearly map out the essential knowledge in wider curriculum subjects to enhance pupils' learning progression. Overall, St Peter’s School is a supportive and effective educational environment that prioritizes pupil development and well-being.
