Adel St John the Baptist Church of England Primary School in Leeds has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 29 and 30, 2020. The school is characterized by a warm and welcoming environment where pupils feel happy and confident. They express pride in their school and appreciate the strong relationships they have with staff, which are underpinned by the school’s Christian ethos. Staff members maintain high expectations for pupils in terms of work, behavior, and learning, fostering an atmosphere where students are encouraged to excel.
The curriculum at Adel St John is broad and engaging, designed to motivate pupils through interesting topics. Enrichment opportunities, such as trips and extracurricular activities, enhance the learning experience. Pupils are well-prepared for their future, with older students taking on responsibilities such as reading buddies for younger pupils. The school council plays an active role in contributing to school life, working alongside leaders to plan clubs and activities.
Pupils report feeling safe at school and value the ‘worry box’ for sharing concerns. They assert that bullying is not an issue, and any conflicts are resolved quickly by adults. Feedback from parents is overwhelmingly positive, with many appreciating the nurturing environment that resembles a large family.
The leadership team has successfully maintained high educational standards since the last inspection, demonstrating a commitment to the well-being of both pupils and staff. Teachers feel valued and supported, particularly regarding their workload. The curriculum aligns well with national standards, and staff select engaging themes for foundation subjects to enhance learning. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that learning is consistently well-organized across all subjects.
Reading development has been a priority, and pupils are achieving well in this area. The phonics program is well-structured, allowing pupils to progress effectively. Books are matched to reading abilities, and additional support is provided for those at risk of falling behind. In Key Stage 2, pupils engage in reading comprehension activities and enjoy stories linked to other subjects, such as history.
Writing, however, requires further development, particularly in Key Stage 2, where pupils' knowledge of spelling and grammar is not consistently reflected in their writing. This indicates a need for more opportunities for extended writing across the curriculum, challenging pupils to apply their skills in spelling, punctuation, and grammar.
Pupils express enjoyment in mathematics, utilizing prior knowledge to tackle new topics. Teachers frequently assess progress, providing ample opportunities for pupils to apply their understanding and develop reasoning skills. Most pupils meet the expected standards by the end of Key Stage 2.
The school effectively adapts the curriculum for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they access the same learning opportunities as their peers. Support is well-planned, and progress is regularly reviewed with parents.
In the Reception class, children receive high levels of care, helping them settle quickly and start their learning journey positively. They begin phonics instruction immediately, with regular practice aiding memory retention. Engaging tasks and challenges keep children focused, and parental involvement in reading sessions further supports their development.
Behavior across the school is commendable, with pupils attentive and hardworking. The school’s Christian values promote respect, understanding, and kindness, fostering a considerate community. Leaders have improved communication with parents regarding attendance, emphasizing its importance for pupil success.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with leaders prioritizing pupil safety. Staff receive regular training and are vigilant in recognizing potential risks. Procedures for safe recruitment are robust, and pupils are educated on how to keep themselves safe, including internet safety.
To enhance the school further, leaders must focus on improving writing standards and ensuring that all subjects are organized effectively to build pupils' knowledge and skills progressively. The commitment to continuous improvement is evident, and with targeted efforts, the school can further elevate its educational offerings.
