Seven Hills Primary School in Morley, Leeds, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on May 16 and 17, 2023. The school is characterized by a strong sense of community, where both pupils and staff feel valued and supported. The school’s motto, a place where everyone is valued, reflects its commitment to inclusivity, particularly for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. High expectations for behavior are set by the staff, and pupils respond positively, demonstrating calm and purposeful behavior in lessons and during social times. Instances of bullying are rare, and pupils feel confident in reporting any concerns, knowing that staff will address issues promptly and effectively.
The school offers a range of extracurricular activities, collaborating with external providers such as Leeds United Football Club to enhance its offerings. Leaders prioritize the mental health of pupils and have achieved recognition as a 'Mindmate' champion. Opportunities for leadership are abundant, with pupils participating in initiatives such as food waste management and menu planning, which fosters a sense of pride and responsibility among them.
In terms of academic performance, staff are well-trained in teaching reading, ensuring that pupils receive one-on-one reading support. The curriculum is designed to build complexity over time, although there are areas for improvement in detailing specific learning objectives. While staff are adept at addressing misconceptions and supporting pupils with SEND, there is a need for clearer identification of essential knowledge and assessment criteria.
The early years provision is effective, with children engaging well and being well-prepared for Year 1. The curriculum is purposeful, focusing on important vocabulary and ensuring that children become confident in using new terms. The personal, social, and health education curriculum is carefully planned, helping pupils understand the importance of mental health and respect for diversity. However, there are gaps in pupils' knowledge of other religions and cultures, indicating a need for improvement in this area.
Governance at the school is strong, with governors actively supporting the school and fulfilling their statutory duties. However, there is a need for more rigorous checks on curriculum design. The workload for teachers is managed well, and there is a focus on professional development, particularly in supporting pupils with SEND.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with pupils feeling safe and supported. Staff are well-informed about their responsibilities in safeguarding, and leaders act swiftly to address any concerns. The PSHE curriculum also plays a crucial role in teaching pupils about safety and healthy relationships.
To enhance the school's effectiveness, leaders need to break down learning objectives into smaller, more manageable steps and ensure that the most important knowledge is clearly identified and assessed. Additionally, strategies should be developed to improve pupils' understanding of diverse faiths and cultures. Overall, Seven Hills Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a supportive and inclusive environment for all its pupils, with a clear focus on continuous improvement in both academic and personal development.
