Hunslet Carr Primary School, located in Leeds, West Yorkshire, has undergone an inspection that highlights its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on November 23 and 24, 2021, and marked a significant improvement from its previous grade of requires improvement. The school is characterized by a strong commitment to nurturing its pupils, as reflected in its motto, Impossible is Nothing. Leaders at the school are dedicated to raising aspirations and ensuring that students are well-prepared for life beyond school. Parents have expressed high levels of satisfaction with the support provided by the school, often recommending it to others.
The headteacher has established a clear vision for the school, which is supported by a capable team of staff. The curriculum is thoughtfully designed, emphasizing personal, social, health, and economic education. Pupils learn about healthy relationships, consent, and personal space, contributing to their overall well-being. The school places a strong emphasis on creating a safe environment where pupils can express their concerns and receive support from trusted adults. This approach fosters a sense of community and encourages pupils to help one another.
The quality of education at Hunslet Carr is rated as good, with a well-sequenced curriculum that connects learning from early years to Year 6. Leaders have high expectations for pupils' knowledge and skills, particularly in English and mathematics, where implementation is consistent across most classes. Reading is prioritized, with a comprehensive phonics program in place. However, some pupils still struggle to keep pace with the phonics curriculum, indicating a need for further support in this area.
The wider curriculum is well-planned, with clear progression from early years to the ambitious end points required for secondary education. Staff understand how pupils learn, and while some teachers effectively use learning recaps to reinforce prior knowledge, this practice is not consistent across all classes. As a result, some pupils may lack a solid understanding of key concepts before new learning occurs.
The inclusion team at Hunslet Carr ensures that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive appropriate support. Adaptations are made to facilitate access to learning for all pupils. The school has engaged parents in discussions about the relationships and sex education curriculum, addressing concerns and providing support to help families navigate these topics.
Governors play an active role in the school, demonstrating a clear understanding of its strengths and areas for improvement. Staff feel valued and supported, with leaders considering their workload and well-being. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of safeguarding established throughout the school. Staff are vigilant and responsive to concerns, ensuring that pupils are well-protected.
While the school has made significant strides, there are areas for improvement. The delivery of early reading interventions needs to be more consistent to ensure that all pupils can catch up effectively. Additionally, the assessment processes in foundation subjects require further development to ensure that teachers can accurately gauge pupils' understanding and progress. Leaders are committed to addressing these issues to enhance the overall educational experience for all pupils at Hunslet Carr Primary School.
