Bankside Primary School, located in Leeds, West Yorkshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 28 and 29, 2020. The school is characterized by a strong sense of community and a commitment to fostering an environment where pupils feel valued and engaged. The leadership team has established high expectations for all students, encouraging them to strive for their personal best and adhere to the school's golden rules, which promote a positive and sociable atmosphere.
Pupils at Bankside Primary School are enthusiastic about their learning and take pride in representing their school as councillors and ambassadors. During the inspection, students demonstrated their knowledge and passion for topics such as climate change, showcasing their ability to articulate their learning experiences. The school emphasizes the importance of routines, and pupils consistently exhibit exemplary behavior, contributing to a safe and supportive learning environment. Reports from students indicate that bullying is rare, and they feel confident that staff will address any issues that arise.
Parents and carers express satisfaction with the school, noting that their children are happy and safe. The school actively involves families through various initiatives, including opportunities for parents to visit during the school day. This engagement helps parents understand their children's learning processes and fosters a collaborative relationship between home and school.
The curriculum at Bankside Primary School is ambitious and well-structured, taking into account the diverse needs and interests of the pupils. Teachers possess strong subject knowledge, particularly in mathematics, and provide resources that support students in tackling challenging tasks. However, some pupils struggle to connect knowledge across different subjects, which can hinder their overall understanding. For instance, during a science lesson, some students had difficulty relating mathematical concepts to their learning about the radius of planets.
The citizenship curriculum is a notable strength of the school, equipping pupils with the skills to form and express their opinions on important issues. The school has successfully integrated this curriculum into its broader educational framework, culminating in engaging activities such as a whole-school protest on climate change, which left a lasting impression on the students.
Bankside Primary School has established strong links with the local children's centre, allowing for a seamless transition for children entering the school. Many pupils begin their education with low starting points, particularly in language and communication skills. The school is dedicated to addressing these challenges, providing targeted support to ensure that all children can access learning opportunities. Phonics instruction begins in nursery, and there is a strong emphasis on developing reading, writing, and mathematical skills in the early years.
Despite the school's many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Attendance rates are a concern, with a significant number of pupils not attending school regularly, which impacts their learning outcomes. Leaders are aware of the need to work closely with families to encourage consistent attendance. Additionally, some older pupils continue to struggle with reading fluency, despite receiving additional support. It is essential for the school to ensure that reading materials are appropriately matched to the needs of these students to foster their development as confident readers.
Furthermore, some pupils find it challenging to retain and recall knowledge across the curriculum, which affects their ability to make connections between different subjects. Leaders must explore strategies to enhance knowledge retention and recall, enabling pupils to build on their learning effectively.
Overall, Bankside Primary School is a vibrant and inclusive educational institution that prioritizes the well-being and development of its pupils. The school has a strong foundation in place, with dedicated staff and a supportive community. By addressing the identified areas for improvement, the school can continue to enhance its educational offerings and ensure that all pupils achieve their full potential.
