Shire Oak VC Primary School in Leeds has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 19 and 20, 2024. The school is known for its nurturing and inclusive environment, receiving high praise from both pupils and families. The community-centric ethos of the school ensures that the needs of the pupils are prioritized, fostering a sense of pride and belonging among students and their families. The school enjoys consistently high attendance rates, reflecting the enjoyment pupils find in their educational experience.
In the classroom, pupils demonstrate focus and a strong desire to learn. Early years children engage in collaborative activities, such as singing songs to transition from outdoor play to classroom learning. The pupils are responsive to their teachers and exhibit high levels of engagement, respect, and articulate communication regarding their learning. Older students take on mentorship roles, supporting younger children during various activities, which enhances the sense of community within the school.
The school maintains high expectations for its pupils, who understand and embrace the principles of kindness, safety, and personal excellence. The rules are perceived as fair, and pupils appreciate the support they receive when they encounter challenges, which helps them navigate their school day and build confidence. This supportive atmosphere contributes to the development of responsible citizens prepared for future challenges.
Shire Oak offers a broad and balanced curriculum that emphasizes key knowledge essential for pupil development. The curriculum is ambitious, with goals such as ensuring all pupils learn to swim by Year 2 and play a musical instrument. The school adapts its curriculum to reflect local context, incorporating local history into lessons and facilitating visits to significant sites. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that pupils regularly revisit previous learning in foundation subjects to strengthen their understanding and connections between topics.
In mathematics, pupils demonstrate their understanding by explaining concepts, starting from early years through to Year 6, where they tackle complex problems using foundational knowledge. The curriculum is inclusive, catering for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities through tailored support and resources.
The school’s library plays a central role in promoting literacy, with dedicated time for classes to engage in research and reading activities. Pupils express enthusiasm for reading and participating in school performances, including acting out classic literature. The emphasis on reading is evident, with staff providing consistent support to enhance pupils' reading skills, leading to high levels of success in literacy.
Beyond academics, Shire Oak prioritizes the holistic development of its pupils, offering leadership opportunities and experiences that promote inclusivity. The school ensures that all children participate in trips and activities, fostering a sense of community and understanding of diverse faiths through visits to places of worship. Pupils engage in community projects, learning about democracy and social responsibility through various initiatives.
The well-being of staff is also a priority, with opportunities for collaboration and support in improving practices. The governance of the school is effective, with experienced members contributing to informed decision-making for the benefit of pupils.
The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place, ensuring a safe environment for all students. While the school continues to excel in many areas, it is recommended that it focuses on enhancing the connections between previously learned knowledge and new concepts in foundation subjects to further improve educational outcomes for all pupils.
