Hunslet Moor Primary School, located in Leeds, West Yorkshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on April 23 and 24, 2024. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils express pride in their attendance. They feel safe and supported by kind adults, and they enjoy a variety of lessons and extracurricular activities, including clubs and special events. The provision of a free daily breakfast is particularly appreciated by the students.
The staff at Hunslet Moor Primary School have established a nurturing atmosphere that effectively supports all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Pupils report positively on the assistance they receive from adults, which contributes to their overall well-being and academic progress. The leadership team has set high expectations for behavior, which are well understood by both pupils and staff. As a result, pupils generally exhibit good behavior in classrooms and throughout the school. The school has implemented effective systems to promote positive behavior, and instances of bullying are rare and managed effectively.
While the school is ambitious in its goal to provide a high-quality education, there are areas within the wider curriculum that require further development. The leadership team is aware of these areas and has begun work to address them. Some subjects lack depth and precise sequencing, which hinders pupils' ability to build on their learning effectively. This limitation affects their capacity to deepen their understanding over time.
The school has prioritized the development of English and mathematics, focusing on helping pupils retain the content they learn. Strategies such as discussions, quizzes, and memory grids are integrated into lessons to support knowledge recall. Staff regularly assess pupils' understanding and provide targeted support to those who may need it, including new arrivals. This approach has proven beneficial in helping pupils remember what they have learned.
The teaching of early reading is particularly effective, with pupils in the early years quickly becoming confident and fluent readers. Daily phonics lessons are delivered with skill, and pupils are given books that align with their phonics knowledge. Those requiring additional support receive individualized reading time and intervention sessions.
Despite the challenges faced since the last inspection, including a significant influx of pupils with complex needs and changes in staffing, the school has made commendable progress. The focused efforts on core subjects have positively impacted pupils' learning, as evidenced by their work and progress in lessons.
However, there remains work to be done in some foundation subjects. While leaders have identified learning objectives, the specific knowledge and concepts that pupils should acquire are not always clearly defined. This results in limited opportunities for pupils to make connections between their learning over time. The curriculum in these subjects needs to be enhanced to ensure that pupils can apply their knowledge and develop a comprehensive understanding.
From the outset in early years, children demonstrate positive attitudes towards learning, developing social skills and independence. The school effectively identifies pupils with special educational needs and adapts teaching to ensure their success. Attendance is a priority, and leaders act swiftly when concerns arise, although some pupils still struggle with consistent attendance.
Pupils benefit from a personal development program that teaches them about healthy lifestyles and safety, including online safety. They understand the importance of equality and celebrate the diversity within their school community. The leadership team, including governors, has a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement. They engage parents through events and appreciate the support they receive. Staff value the support from leaders and are proud to be part of the Hunslet Moor team. The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
