Following the short inspection of Bradshaw Community Primary School on 27 February 2019, it has been confirmed that the school continues to provide a good quality of education. The leadership team has effectively maintained the standards established during the previous inspection in November 2014. The school is characterized by a welcoming atmosphere where pupils are happy, eager to learn, and attend regularly. Positive behavior and attitudes towards learning are evident among the students.
The leadership, in collaboration with the governing body, has created a shared vision that prioritizes the welfare of pupils. There has been sustained improvement, and high standards have been set for all. Senior leaders possess a clear understanding of the school’s strengths and areas needing development, allowing them to prioritize actions effectively and provide constructive feedback to staff.
Significant changes have occurred within the governing body, with the new chair bringing a renewed focus on school improvement. The governing body possesses a diverse range of skills that they utilize to challenge and support school leaders. The curriculum has been thoughtfully designed to reflect the school’s priorities, particularly in music, modern foreign languages, history, and art. However, there is still work to be done to enhance the curriculum in design and technology and geography.
Pupils benefit from numerous opportunities that enrich their learning experiences, including partnerships with a Spanish school and various extracurricular activities. Staff morale is high, with teachers expressing satisfaction with the support they receive from leaders, which enables them to perform their roles effectively. Communication among staff is strong, fostering a collaborative environment focused on pupil benefit.
In the Reception class, children receive a strong start, with high-quality phonics instruction aiding their reading and writing development. Adults effectively support the development of mathematical skills through engaging play opportunities, leading to excellent progress for children by the time they enter Year 1.
Parents and carers view the school as a family-like environment, appreciating the care and support their children receive. Pupils exhibit polite and courteous behavior, and staff manage any minor disruptions effectively. The school has made notable progress in improving the quality of teaching and raising pupils’ achievements, particularly in writing.
Leaders have implemented effective monitoring systems to ensure teaching quality and maximize the impact on pupil learning. Safeguarding measures are robust, with a strong culture of safety within the school. Staff are well-trained, and concerns are addressed promptly. Pupils feel safe and cared for, and they are taught how to maintain their safety through a well-structured curriculum.
The inspection identified key areas for further improvement, particularly in enhancing pupils’ outcomes in reading and mathematics, especially for the most able. Leaders are encouraged to continue developing reasoning skills in mathematics and to embed new reading approaches. Additionally, refining and expanding the curriculum in geography and design and technology is essential for ongoing improvement. Overall, the school is on a positive trajectory, with a clear focus on continuous development and pupil success.
