Whinmoor St Paul’s Church of England Primary School in Leeds has shown significant improvement since its last inspection, moving from a grade of Requires Improvement to Good. The school is characterized by a happy, inclusive, and welcoming environment where Christian values guide the expectations for pupils' work and behavior. Staff maintain high expectations for student achievement, ensuring that pupils develop essential skills in reading, writing, and mathematics. The school fosters a culture of respect and tolerance, with pupils demonstrating good behavior and a strong work ethic. They understand the school's behavior policy and are eager to participate in class discussions, often volunteering to answer questions and share their thoughts.
The leadership team has established a safe and inclusive atmosphere where bullying is not tolerated, and pupils feel secure. They trust the staff to address any issues that may arise. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities that allow pupils to explore their interests and talents, ensuring that all students have access to these opportunities. The quality of education has improved, with a strong curriculum designed to meet the diverse needs of all pupils. Teachers engage students with interesting lessons, and regular assessments help track their progress in core subjects.
Reading is prioritized across the school, with a dedicated English team that promotes a love for reading. Staff are well-trained in phonics instruction, particularly in the early years and Key Stage 1, ensuring that pupils develop strong foundational reading skills. The curriculum includes a focus on diverse cultures, with initiatives that connect students with schools in other countries, enhancing their understanding of global perspectives.
In the early years, staff understand how young children learn and develop, providing purposeful activities that encourage exploration and investigation. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in mathematics, where some children may not receive sufficiently challenging work to prepare them for Year 1. The school is committed to ensuring that all activities align with the early years curriculum's aims and requirements.
The school is dedicated to meeting the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Teachers adapt the curriculum to ensure that these pupils can access the same broad curriculum as their peers, receiving support from well-trained staff. Safeguarding measures are effective, with a culture of vigilance regarding pupil safety. Staff are well-trained in safeguarding practices, including online safety and recognizing signs of potential risks.
To continue its progress, the school must embed its recently introduced curriculum in foundation subjects to ensure that pupils retain knowledge over time. Additionally, leaders need to ensure that early years activities are appropriately challenging, particularly in mathematics, to better prepare children for future learning. Overall, Whinmoor St Paul’s is a welcoming and inclusive school that has made commendable strides in providing quality education and fostering a positive learning environment for all its pupils.
