St Matthew’s Church of England Aided Primary School in Leeds has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 26-27, 2020. The school is characterized by a happy, caring, and welcoming environment where pupil welfare is prioritized. Parents generally hold the school in high regard, and students demonstrate respect for one another and for adults. The positive atmosphere is reflected in the students' enjoyment of school and their good attendance rates. The behavior of pupils is commendable, as they adhere to clear behavior rules and understand the consequences of not following them. The school’s behavior policy is well-communicated, contributing to a positive learning environment.
The relationships between pupils and staff are strong, with family values at the core of the school's ethos. Pupils are engaged in their lessons and exhibit a desire to excel, thanks to the high expectations set by teachers. The school encourages pupils to take on various responsibilities, which fosters a sense of pride and ownership in their school community. Initiatives such as school councils allow students to contribute to improvements, such as enhancing school meals and engaging with local care homes. Instances of bullying are rare, and the pastoral team effectively supports vulnerable pupils and their families.
The school has made significant strides in improving its reading instruction, particularly in early years. A structured phonics program has been implemented, ensuring that pupils learn the necessary sounds each term. Teachers regularly assess pupils' reading progress and provide catch-up programs for those who need additional support. The reading materials are well-aligned with the phonics curriculum, fostering confidence and enjoyment in reading among pupils.
While the school has made commendable progress, leaders are encouraged to continue monitoring the effectiveness of their plans to maintain and raise standards. The curriculum is well-planned and linked to the national curriculum, with a focus on developing knowledge and skills over time. The history curriculum, for example, includes enriching experiences such as visits to historical sites, which enhance learning. However, leaders are still working on refining other subjects to ensure they are equally effective.
In mathematics, the curriculum is clearly defined, and teachers build knowledge progressively. Pupils express enjoyment in learning new concepts and appreciate the review of key skills, which aids retention. The early years' environment is supportive, with children displaying confidence and independence as they engage in various activities. Adults provide high levels of care and maintain positive relationships with the children.
Attendance rates at the school are above the national average, and leaders actively work to support families in ensuring regular attendance. The school has implemented additional services to prioritize attendance and maintain detailed records of pupil movements.
The curriculum is further enriched through various activities that teach essential life skills. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive tailored support, allowing them to engage effectively in lessons alongside their peers. Staff morale is high, with a strong sense of teamwork and collaboration evident throughout the school.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff receiving regular training and maintaining up-to-date knowledge of safeguarding practices. The school collaborates well with external agencies to ensure the safety and well-being of its pupils. Overall, St Matthew’s Church of England Aided Primary School continues to provide a good quality of education, with a commitment to ongoing improvement and the well-being of its students.