Cottingley Primary Academy in Leeds has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 11 and 12, 2024. The principal, Kelly Bentley, leads the school, which is part of the Academies Enterprise Trust. The trust is overseen by CEO Rebecca Boomer-Clark and a board of trustees chaired by David Hall. The school is characterized by a nurturing environment where pupils feel safe and respected. The positive relationships between staff and students foster a culture of kindness and consideration, which is reflected in the way pupils interact with one another.
The school has high aspirations for both academic achievement and personal development. Pupils are encouraged to be mindful of others' feelings and opinions, contributing to a supportive community. Clear routines are established, helping even the youngest pupils navigate the school environment calmly and purposefully. The behavior of pupils is commendable, and they demonstrate a strong work ethic. They are taught effective concentration strategies, such as tracking reading in their books, which enhances their learning experience.
Attendance is a priority for the school, and staff work closely with families to address any issues related to low attendance. The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, ensuring that pupils build knowledge and vocabulary progressively. Subjects like geography are taught in a way that connects different concepts, such as climate and ecosystems, allowing pupils to apply their learning in meaningful contexts. The school is particularly attentive to the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, providing them with the same high-quality curriculum as their peers.
In lessons, staff regularly assess pupils' understanding, although there is room for improvement in utilizing this information to address misconceptions and extend learning. The phonics curriculum is effectively implemented, with pupils reading books that align with their phonetic knowledge. Additional support is provided for those who require it, ensuring that all pupils, including older students who are still developing their reading skills, receive the help they need to become proficient readers.
The school promotes a love of reading through a carefully curated selection of books across various genres, emphasizing the importance of literature in the educational experience. Beyond academics, the school offers a range of experiences that contribute to pupils' personal and social development. Lessons on personal, social, health, and economic education help pupils understand societal diversity and important life skills, such as online safety and healthy relationships.
Staff members report feeling supported in their roles, with recent curriculum developments aiding in workload management. The school values communication with parents and regularly evaluates its effectiveness in this area. The governance structure within the trust is robust, allowing leaders to maintain a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement. While the school has made strides in improving attendance, some pupils still require additional support to ensure consistent attendance. Recent initiatives to identify and assist families with attendance issues are beginning to show positive results, fostering a culture of high attendance.
The safeguarding arrangements at Cottingley Primary Academy are effective, ensuring that pupils' welfare is prioritized. Overall, the school demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and a supportive environment for all its pupils, with clear pathways for continued improvement in teaching and learning practices.
