Crossley Street Primary School in Wetherby, West Yorkshire, has received an outstanding rating in its recent inspection conducted on May 21 and 22, 2024. The school has maintained this high standard since its last inspection in December 2012, when it was also rated outstanding. The inspection highlighted the school's commitment to providing a high-quality education, fostering positive relationships, and creating a strong sense of community among pupils.
The school is dedicated to ensuring that every pupil experiences success, with exceptionally high expectations for both behavior and academic achievement. Pupils demonstrate remarkable respect and kindness towards one another, contributing to a positive learning environment. They are well-mannered, polite, and exhibit positive attitudes towards their learning. The school has established a culture where bullying and unkindness are not tolerated, ensuring that pupils feel safe and happy.
Pupils are encouraged to take on leadership roles, such as prefects and play leaders, which fosters a sense of responsibility and pride. Initiatives like reading buddies allow older pupils to support younger ones, enhancing the community spirit within the school. The school actively listens to pupils, allowing them to contribute positively to school life.
The curriculum is carefully planned to provide a comprehensive learning experience from early years through to Year 6. It identifies essential knowledge and skills that pupils need to acquire and remember. Lessons are structured to build on previous learning, with regular opportunities for pupils to recap and make meaningful connections across subjects. This approach has proven effective, particularly for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, who receive tailored support to help them succeed.
Reading is a key focus at Crossley Street Primary School, with a strong emphasis on phonics teaching from the early years. Staff are skilled in identifying pupils who may be falling behind and provide the necessary support to help them catch up. The school promotes a love of reading through daily story sessions and carefully selected books that match pupils' phonetic knowledge.
Mathematics instruction is another strength of the school, with teachers ensuring that pupils build on their prior knowledge through engaging and practical lessons. The curriculum is designed to prepare pupils for future learning, and they consistently achieve high results in national assessments.
The personal development program is integral to the school's mission, with a well-structured curriculum that emphasizes health, safety, and respect for diversity. Pupils learn the importance of leading healthy lives and develop a deep understanding of different family structures and relationships.
The early years provision is exemplary, providing a stimulating environment that encourages independence and resilience. Children engage in exciting activities that promote concentration and self-regulation, allowing them to flourish both academically and socially.
Attendance at the school is high, and parents express strong support for the school's efforts, noting that it goes above and beyond in its commitment to student welfare. Staff also appreciate the measures taken to support their well-being and manage workloads effectively.
The school's safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring that pupils' safety and well-being are prioritized. Overall, Crossley Street Primary School exemplifies excellence in education, demonstrating a commitment to high standards across all areas of school life.
