St Peter’s Church of England Primary School in Leeds has received an outstanding rating in its recent inspection conducted on 22 and 23 November 2023. The school has maintained this high standard since its last inspection in October 2011, demonstrating a consistent commitment to excellence in education. The school’s motto, “We Care,” reflects its ethos of support for pupils and their families, ensuring a safe and happy environment for all students.
The quality of education at St Peter’s is exceptional, with a curriculum designed to foster a thirst for learning from a young age. Pupils are highly motivated and engage actively in lessons, leading to impressive academic achievements over time. The school promotes exemplary behavior, with pupils demonstrating politeness and respect towards one another and adults. They are encouraged to reflect on their behavior and learn to manage their emotions effectively.
The school excels in providing a well-rounded education that extends beyond academics. The curriculum includes important historical and cultural knowledge, helping pupils understand the world around them. A variety of extracurricular activities, such as participation in a steel pan band, allows pupils to explore their interests and talents. Parents and carers express high satisfaction with the school, appreciating the support their children receive and the effective communication between home and school.
St Peter’s has designed its curriculum thoughtfully, ensuring clarity in the knowledge and skills pupils need to acquire as they progress. Regular opportunities for building on prior learning are provided, enabling pupils to transfer their knowledge across subjects. For instance, lessons in personal, social, and health education connect with historical learning about democracy, reinforcing the relevance of past events to current and future contexts.
The school is particularly adept at supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Staff are skilled in adapting lesson activities to meet individual needs, ensuring that all pupils receive the necessary support without missing out on essential classroom experiences. The implementation of the curriculum is consistent across all subjects, with teachers demonstrating strong subject knowledge and promptly addressing any misconceptions.
Reading is prioritized at St Peter’s, with a structured approach to phonics instruction. Well-trained staff deliver effective phonics lessons, providing pupils with ample opportunities to practice and develop their reading skills. The selection of reading materials is diverse, exposing pupils to various genres and cultures, which fosters a love for reading and an understanding of its importance in learning.
In the early years, children are encouraged to become confident learners. They engage in activities that promote independence and skill development, supported by attentive staff. The school’s personal development program emphasizes values such as respect and spiritual growth, which pupils apply in their interactions with others. They learn about different faiths and beliefs, fostering tolerance and respect for diversity.
St Peter’s also introduces pupils to various career options through events and projects, helping them understand the value of hard work in achieving future goals. The school is mindful of staff well-being, providing support and fostering a positive working environment. Governors play an active role in monitoring the school’s performance, ensuring that leaders are held accountable for their decisions.
The safeguarding arrangements at St Peter’s are effective, creating a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, the school demonstrates a strong commitment to excellence in education, personal development, and community engagement, making it a highly regarded institution in the local area.
