Kirkstall St Stephen’s Church of England Primary School has been recognized as a good school following its recent inspection on October 11 and 12, 2023. The school prioritizes the well-being of its pupils, who come from diverse backgrounds, including those facing significant challenges and additional learning needs. The environment at Kirkstall St Stephen’s is nurturing, allowing pupils to flourish while also being challenged academically. The leadership has made strides in developing a robust curriculum across all subjects, raising expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum is generally well delivered, and pupils are actively engaged in their learning.
Pupils play an integral role in the school community, participating in various clubs and leadership roles. The school encourages a high level of involvement, with many pupils taking on responsibilities such as monitors for different areas within the school. Behavior among pupils is commendable, with rare instances of unkindness swiftly addressed by staff. The school fosters a culture of acceptance and safety, where differences are embraced, and pupils feel valued. The ethos of cherishing and challenging pupils is evident, with a strong emphasis on their identity as children of God.
The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, with clear identification of key knowledge across subjects. This planning begins in the early years, where children are assessed and supported in developing their vocabulary and knowledge. The art curriculum, for instance, effectively builds practical and theoretical skills over time, resulting in impressive work from pupils across all year groups. Mathematics instruction has also been notably strong.
Leaders have created comprehensive subject overviews and knowledge organizers that guide teaching and learning. These resources contribute to clear learning journey checklists, enhancing clarity for both staff and pupils. While assessments are conducted to gauge pupil progress, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that assessments align closely with the content being taught. Additionally, there is a need to enhance the understanding of what it means to be a subject expert among pupils.
Reading is a priority at the school, with staff receiving quality training in phonics instruction. However, there are occasional inconsistencies in the delivery of the phonics program, leading to some pupils struggling to keep pace with their peers. The school is committed to supporting pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they have access to the full curriculum and appropriate adaptations are made to meet their needs.
The school actively engages with parents and collaborates with external agencies to support individual pupils. This proactive approach has contributed to a decrease in persistent absenteeism. A variety of extracurricular opportunities are available, including sports and cooking clubs, allowing pupils to influence school decisions and participate in community events.
Staff members feel supported and valued, appreciating the leadership's efforts to improve the school while maintaining a manageable workload. The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, Kirkstall St Stephen’s Church of England Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a strong foundation for further improvement in specific areas such as phonics delivery and assessment practices. The school’s commitment to nurturing and challenging its pupils is evident, creating a positive and enriching educational experience.
