Shakespeare Primary School, located on Lincoln Road in Leeds, West Yorkshire, has been recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on April 30 and May 1, 2024. The school is known for its welcoming environment where pupils thrive and develop strong relationships. It maintains high expectations and is committed to providing quality education for all students, including those who join mid-year and may have limited English proficiency. The staff is highly skilled in addressing the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that all students receive the support they require.
Parents and carers express positive sentiments about the school, highlighting its supportive atmosphere. Pupils engage in harmonious play during break times, and the overall behavior in the school is calm and purposeful. The school fosters a sense of safety, with pupils trusting adults to resolve any issues they encounter. The wider development of pupils is exceptional, with initiatives like the Shakespeare 60 program offering a variety of educational visits and activities that enhance cultural experiences. Pupils participate in various extracurricular activities, including sports and charity events, which contribute to their personal growth.
The school has made significant strides in improving its curriculum over the past two years, clearly defining essential knowledge from early years to Year 6. This includes a focus on vocabulary that supports reading and writing skills. In the Nursery, children engage in activities that promote early numeracy skills, while older pupils benefit from structured lessons that reinforce important concepts across subjects. The school has also implemented a new phonics program, which is taught effectively, ensuring that all pupils have access to reading materials that match their learning levels.
Pupils with special educational needs achieve well, with tailored support plans that guide staff in providing the necessary assistance. The school has established its own provisions for these pupils, ensuring that their unique needs are met through specialized teaching. Attendance is a priority, and the school has implemented systems to monitor and support pupils in achieving high attendance rates.
While the school has demonstrated strong performance, there are areas for improvement. Some subjects are still in the process of embedding refinements to the curriculum, and leaders are focused on ensuring that teaching consistently supports all pupils in reaching high standards. The school is committed to continuous improvement, with staff feeling valued and proud to be part of the school community.
The safeguarding arrangements at Shakespeare Primary School are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and their welfare is prioritized. The school does not utilize alternative provisions and has a before- and after-school club for its pupils. The inspection team engaged with various stakeholders, including school leaders, governors, and parents, to gather insights into the school's performance and community impact.
Overall, Shakespeare Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a strong emphasis on pupil development, safety, and community involvement. The leadership's determination to enhance the quality of education is evident, and the school is well-positioned to build on its successes while addressing areas for further growth.
