St Philip’s CofE Primary School in Bradford has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 6 and 7, 2023. The school fosters a welcoming and polite environment where pupils feel safe and enjoy attending. The leadership team is dedicated to ensuring that students receive the best preparation for their future education and life. Staff members are well-acquainted with the pupils and their families, contributing to a strong sense of community.
Pupils exhibit good behavior both in lessons and during breaks, with staff maintaining high expectations for conduct. The school promotes a positive atmosphere where conflicts are resolved effectively, and pupils report that bullying is not an issue, as any potential incidents are addressed promptly. The leadership team encourages pupils to take on leadership roles, such as participating in worship and school council activities, which helps them develop a sense of responsibility and aspiration for their future.
The curriculum at St Philip’s is ambitious and well-structured, spanning from Nursery to Year 6. Leaders have identified key knowledge that pupils should acquire, ensuring that learning builds progressively over time. Language development, vocabulary, and speaking skills are prioritized across subjects. Teachers generally demonstrate strong subject knowledge, particularly in mathematics, where young learners engage in activities that enhance their understanding of mathematical concepts.
Regular assessments allow teachers to identify gaps in pupils’ knowledge and adapt lessons accordingly. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive appropriate support, ensuring they can access the curriculum effectively. The computing curriculum is well-organized, although some areas require further attention to ensure pupils achieve a secure understanding of the subject.
Reading has been a focus for improvement, particularly following disappointing outcomes in national assessments. Leaders have intensified efforts to enhance phonics instruction, providing teachers with training and ongoing support. As a result, pupils are making progress in their reading skills, although some still require additional assistance to reach fluency.
The early years curriculum is designed to give children a strong foundation for their education. Children in the early years demonstrate confidence and independence, engaging in activities that promote sustained attention and positive behavior. The relationships between adults and children are constructive, with staff actively participating in various learning experiences.
Personal, social, and health education is effectively integrated into the curriculum, fostering inclusivity and respect among pupils. They learn about healthy relationships and the importance of understanding diverse perspectives. Staff members report high job satisfaction, feeling well-supported by school leaders, and describe the work environment as familial.
Governors and trustees share the high aspirations of school leaders, providing appropriate support and challenge. They regularly visit the school to monitor the implementation of policies and the effectiveness of leadership.
The safeguarding arrangements at St Philip’s are robust, with a strong culture of safety established throughout the school. Staff are well-trained in safeguarding procedures, and pupils feel secure in their environment. They are educated on how to stay safe, including online safety.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Variability in curriculum implementation has been noted, with some pupils struggling to retain knowledge across subjects. Leaders are encouraged to ensure that the curriculum is consistently embedded to enhance retention. Additionally, while phonics instruction has improved, some pupils in key stages one and two still need support to achieve reading fluency. Addressing these areas will further enhance the educational experience at St Philip’s CofE Primary School.
