St Chad’s Church of England Primary School in Leeds has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on July 9 and 10, 2024. The school is characterized by a warm, welcoming, and inclusive environment, with a vision that emphasizes care, sharing, laughter, and learning. Pupils feel happy, safe, and well cared for, enjoying their time with friends and engaging enthusiastically in various enriching learning opportunities. The positive relationships between pupils and adults contribute to a supportive atmosphere where bullying is reported as rare, and pupils trust adults to assist them when needed.
The school offers a broad and ambitious curriculum that is well sequenced to build on prior knowledge, ensuring that all pupils are appropriately challenged. Mathematics instruction is particularly effective, leading to strong pupil achievement in this subject. The school is committed to meeting the needs of disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs and/or disabilities through careful task adaptations and additional support. However, some recent strategies for implementing the curriculum and supporting pupil learning have not yet been consistently applied across the school, leading to occasional disengagement among pupils.
Reading is taught effectively, with a strong emphasis on phonics. Staff are well-trained, and pupils receive regular checks on their understanding, ensuring that those who need additional practice are supported. Older pupils who struggle with reading are also given the necessary assistance to catch up. The enjoyment of reading is evident among pupils, who actively discuss their favorite books and participate in reading challenges.
The early years provision is vibrant and fosters curiosity and imagination. Children engage in creative activities, such as making magic potions and planting imaginary turnips. However, there is a need for more opportunities for children to practice correct letter formation, as some writing errors go unaddressed, impacting their readiness for the Year 1 curriculum.
Pupil behavior is commendable, with well-established routines that promote harmonious play during social times. Attendance is generally good, and the school actively supports vulnerable pupils to improve their attendance. Personal development is a key focus, with pupils learning about different cultures, religions, and the importance of treating others fairly. They engage in community activities, such as carol singing and Fairtrade coffee mornings, and older pupils take on leadership roles within the school.
Governance is strong, with effective oversight from the board of trustees. Leaders are mindful of staff workload and well-being, contributing to a supportive work environment. Parents express high levels of satisfaction with the education and support their children receive, recognizing the improvements made by school leaders.
The school’s safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and their welfare prioritized. To improve further, the school needs to embed its teaching and assessment strategies consistently across all areas. Additionally, it should provide more opportunities for early years children to practice their writing skills to reduce errors and enhance their readiness for future learning. Overall, St Chad’s Church of England Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a positive school community.
