Rufford Park Primary School, located in Yeadon, Leeds, is recognized as a good school following its inspection on July 19 and 20, 2022. The school is characterized by a welcoming and friendly environment, fostering a calm and purposeful atmosphere where pupils are eager to start their day. Students express enthusiasm for their learning, attributing this to engaging and challenging lessons delivered by their teachers. The high expectations set by leaders and staff contribute to a culture of respect and good behavior among pupils, who are noted for being polite, well-mannered, and attentive to others.
The school promotes a wide range of extracurricular activities, including participation in a Shakespeare festival, poetry competitions, and various after-school clubs. Pupils also enjoy residential trips that enhance their educational experience. Parents and carers have expressed overwhelming positivity about the school, highlighting the dedication of the staff in supporting their children's development.
Since the last inspection, the school has undergone significant changes, including new appointments in senior leadership and governance. The headteacher and other leaders have worked collaboratively with the governing body to maintain high ambitions for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school is actively developing its curriculum, which has been impacted by the pandemic, but progress is evident.
The curriculum is designed to be ambitious and engaging, with subject leaders identifying essential knowledge and skills for pupils. The interconnectedness of subjects through thematic learning allows for a coherent educational experience. Teachers effectively sequence content, enabling pupils to build on prior knowledge, which results in strong achievement across various subjects. The inclusive nature of the school ensures that pupils with special educational needs receive tailored support to help them succeed.
Professional development for subject leaders has been prioritized, enabling them to provide effective support and training for teachers. This has led to confident delivery of the curriculum and effective use of assessments to gauge pupil understanding. However, some foundation subjects require further development in leadership training to enhance monitoring and support.
Reading is a key focus at Rufford Park Primary School, with a strong emphasis on fostering a love for reading among pupils. The school provides a rich selection of books and encourages reading for pleasure, which positively influences pupils' writing skills. Early reading instruction is prioritized, with staff trained to teach phonics effectively, ensuring that pupils develop into confident readers.
The early years curriculum is well-structured, catering for children's interests and developmental needs, setting a solid foundation for future learning. Personal development is also a strength, with leaders committed to broadening pupils' experiences and fostering qualities such as confidence and resilience. Opportunities for leadership roles, such as student council membership, help pupils understand their impact on the school community.
Staff workload is considered by leaders, who provide professional development opportunities within the Aireborough Learning Partnership. Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of safety prioritized by leaders and governors. Staff are well-trained and confident in their responsibilities, ensuring that pupils are taught how to stay safe in various situations.
To improve, the school needs to enhance assessment systems in some foundation subjects to ensure they accurately reflect pupil learning and identify knowledge gaps. Additionally, further development of subject leadership training is necessary to support all subject leaders in effectively implementing the curriculum. Overall, Rufford Park Primary School continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing a high-quality education for its pupils.
