Shirley Manor Primary School, located in Bradford, West Yorkshire, has demonstrated significant improvement since its last inspection in 2017. The school is now rated as good in overall effectiveness, leadership and management, quality of teaching, personal development, behavior, welfare, and outcomes for pupils. The headteacher has been instrumental in driving these improvements, working closely with a dedicated team of middle leaders to enhance the educational experience for all students. The leadership team is committed to maintaining high standards and ensuring that all pupils, regardless of their background or ability, can achieve their best.
Pupils at Shirley Manor Primary School are making good progress in reading, writing, and mathematics from their starting points. This progress is particularly notable among disadvantaged pupils, whose attainment is increasingly aligning with national expectations by the end of key stages one and two. The headteacher's passion for helping children succeed is evident and is shared by the staff, creating a supportive and encouraging environment for learning.
The quality of teaching is generally good, although there are areas for improvement, particularly in providing adequate challenge for the most able pupils in mathematics and English. This has resulted in fewer pupils achieving a greater depth of understanding or reaching higher standards in national tests. The school has recognized this and is actively working to enhance the teaching of mathematics to ensure that pupils develop quick and accurate calculation skills, which are essential for problem-solving and reasoning.
In the early years, children receive a strong start, benefiting from effective leadership and a stimulating learning environment. The early years provision is well-structured, allowing children to achieve well and develop a love for learning. Most pupils exhibit good behavior, taking pride in their school and feeling supported by staff in their personal development. Attendance has improved significantly, thanks in part to the efforts of the attendance officer, who has provided excellent support to families.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports and clubs, which contribute to pupils' personal development. Leaders for English and mathematics are actively involved in monitoring and improving provision, although their actions need to be more timely and precise to ensure that teaching staff receive the necessary support for their professional development.
Governance at Shirley Manor is strong, with governors effectively monitoring the use of additional funding and its impact on pupil learning. They are well-informed about the school's strengths and areas for improvement, allowing them to provide appropriate support and challenge to the leadership team.
Safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring that pupils feel safe and secure in their school environment. Staff are well-trained in safeguarding procedures and are proactive in addressing any concerns. The school fosters a culture of respect and inclusivity, where pupils learn about diversity and the importance of treating others with kindness.
Overall, Shirley Manor Primary School has made commendable strides in improving educational outcomes for its pupils. The commitment of the leadership team, staff, and governors to continuous improvement is evident, and the school is well-positioned to build on its successes in the future.
