Middleton St Mary’s Church of England Voluntary Controlled Primary School in Leeds has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on May 24 and 25, 2022. The school has made significant progress since its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. The leadership team has established a positive culture where every pupil is treated as an individual, fostering sincere relationships between staff and students. The leaders aim to make the school a central hub for the community, and they are well on their way to achieving this goal.
The curriculum at Middleton St Mary’s is broad and well-organized, ensuring that pupils are well-prepared to meet ambitious learning objectives. Subjects such as geography, history, and science are taught effectively, and reading has been prioritized within the school. There is a strong emphasis on high-quality children's literature, with opportunities for pupils to engage with local authors and illustrators, which enhances their love for reading.
Pupils report feeling happy and safe at school, demonstrating politeness and respect towards one another. The staff maintain high expectations for behavior, and pupils generally meet these expectations, contributing to a calm and purposeful atmosphere. The school has implemented a behavior initiative known as The St Mary’s Walk, which promotes positive conduct. Instances of bullying are rare, and pupils feel confident that their concerns will be addressed promptly by the staff.
The early years provision is strong, providing children with a solid foundation for their future education. The learning environment is engaging, and children are well-prepared for their transition into Year 1. The curriculum is designed to progressively develop pupils' knowledge and skills, ensuring they are ready for secondary education.
While the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement. Leaders have recognized the need to deepen pupils' knowledge across all subjects, as some students do not consistently receive challenging opportunities that would allow them to thrive. Additionally, while pupils have a good understanding of Christianity, their knowledge of other world faiths is variable. Leaders are working to enhance this aspect of the curriculum by reintroducing visits to places of worship, which were paused during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The school’s safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of safeguarding established by the leadership team. Staff are trained to identify and report any concerns regarding pupil welfare, and there are robust procedures in place to ensure the safety of all students. Pupils trust the adults in the school and feel comfortable discussing their concerns.
The governing body is relatively new but is led by an experienced chairperson. Governors are actively involved in supporting and challenging the leadership team, ensuring accountability and promoting school improvement. The local authority also plays a supportive role in the school’s development.
Overall, Middleton St Mary’s Church of England Voluntary Controlled Primary School is a good school that provides a nurturing and supportive environment for its pupils. The leadership team is committed to continuous improvement, and with further development of the curriculum and a focus on deepening pupils' knowledge, the school is well-positioned for future success.