Iqra Primary Academy, located in Bradford, West Yorkshire, has recently undergone an inspection by Ofsted, which took place on October 31 and November 1, 2023. The school has been rated as good overall, with outstanding marks in behavior and attitudes, as well as personal development. The quality of education and early years provision also received a good rating, while leadership and management were deemed good. This inspection marks the first routine evaluation since the school became an academy, as it was previously exempt from routine inspections.
The principal, Andrea Ives, leads the school, which is part of the iExel Education Trust. The trust is overseen by CEO Professor M. Khurshid Khan and a board of trustees chaired by Ali Jan Haider. The school has established a positive environment characterized by respect and acceptance among pupils. Students demonstrate kindness and support for one another, actively engaging in their learning and enjoying their time at school.
The school sets high expectations for all pupils, particularly those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). The curriculum is ambitious, focusing on essential knowledge and vocabulary, and providing necessary support for pupils who require additional help. Pupils exhibit exceptional self-management skills, adhering to school rules and routines with minimal reminders. They transition quickly between activities and remain focused throughout the school day, maximizing their learning time.
Pupils take pride in their school and appreciate its unique features, such as specialized science classrooms and a variety of extracurricular clubs, including cheerleading and coding. They gain cultural knowledge about Bradford's diversity through activities like attending literature festivals and visiting places of worship. The school fosters a sense of belonging, as expressed by a pupil who noted that everyone can find their place there.
Trustees possess a clear understanding of the school's operations, supported by local governors. They have facilitated smooth transitions during recent changes and are aware of the school's strengths and areas for improvement. The school emphasizes the importance of reading, with staff in early years demonstrating enthusiasm for books, engaging children in rhymes, and teaching phonics effectively. Pupils enjoy reading and are motivated by initiatives like reading vending machines.
While the school has defined the knowledge required across various subjects, there is recognition that some foundation subjects need clearer breakdowns of knowledge into smaller steps. In certain areas, staff may lack confidence in their subject knowledge, which can lead to missed opportunities for reinforcing pupils' understanding. Teachers effectively use assessment to track progress and adapt their teaching accordingly, reducing workload while focusing on pupil learning.
The school maintains high attendance rates and addresses any issues promptly, ensuring that pupils with SEND receive tailored support to overcome barriers to their success. The nurturing environment promotes maturity and tolerance among pupils, who engage in discussions about kindness and respect. The school has invested significantly in enrichment opportunities, integrating them into the curriculum.
Despite the positive aspects, some parents have expressed a desire for improved communication regarding school activities. Leaders are working to strengthen community relationships by inviting parents to participate in school events. Overall, the inspection highlights the school's commitment to providing a supportive and enriching educational experience for all its pupils.
