Burley St Matthias Church of England Voluntary Controlled Primary School in Leeds has been recognized for its overall effectiveness, receiving a Good rating in various aspects including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school emphasizes Christian values, encapsulated in its motto Everyone is special, fostering a supportive and family-like community. The co-headteachers and staff are dedicated to ensuring the safety and happiness of pupils, while also providing strong support for families. Pupils demonstrate a positive attitude towards their learning, working diligently and striving for success.
The school maintains high expectations for all students, ensuring that no child is overlooked. The curriculum is designed to facilitate effective learning, with teachers actively working to enhance the quality of education across all subjects. Relationships within the school are characterized by warmth and nurturing, contributing to a positive learning environment. Pupils exhibit good behavior, demonstrating responsibility and safety, particularly when navigating between the two school sites. Instances of bullying are reported to be rare, and when they do occur, they are addressed promptly.
Burley St Matthias Primary School serves a diverse community, exposing pupils to various cultures and experiences that enrich their education. Students participate in local church services and enjoy educational trips, further broadening their horizons. The leadership team, including the co-headteachers and senior leaders, is committed to continuous improvement, driving the school forward with effective strategies and support systems.
The school has made significant strides in literacy, particularly in phonics instruction, where teachers and teaching assistants are skilled in delivering lessons that follow a clear sequence. Children in Reception quickly learn letters and sounds, progressing to reading simple words. The school ensures that pupils who may fall behind receive timely support to catch up. The curriculum is well-planned, allowing pupils to acquire knowledge and skills in a structured manner. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the assessment of learning in foundation subjects, where clarity on expectations for more able pupils is needed.
While the school has a strong attendance policy, a small number of pupils are persistently absent, which affects their learning. Leaders are actively working with families to address this issue. The personal, social, and health education program is effective, encouraging pupils to engage with moral and topical issues, and promoting mental health awareness.
The safeguarding arrangements are robust, with a strong emphasis on child protection. Staff are well-trained and maintain detailed records, ensuring that vulnerable pupils receive the necessary support. Communication among staff is effective, fostering a culture of safety and well-being.
In summary, Burley St Matthias Primary School is a good institution that is continually evolving. The leadership team is focused on enhancing the curriculum and ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs, receive the support they need to thrive. The school community is characterized by strong relationships, high expectations, and a commitment to the holistic development of every child. The ongoing efforts to improve attendance and the implementation of curriculum plans will further strengthen the school's effectiveness in providing quality education.
