Holy Name Catholic Voluntary Academy, located in Cookridge, Leeds, is recognized as a good school following its inspection on October 24 and 25, 2023. The headteacher, Jonathan Gibbons, leads the school, which is part of the Bishop Wheeler Catholic Academy Trust. The trust is overseen by CEO Darren Beardsley and a board of trustees chaired by Diane Gaskin. The school fosters a welcoming environment where pupils feel respected and valued. Students express pride in attending the school and appreciate the equal treatment they receive. They actively engage in discussions about their learning experiences, showcasing enthusiasm for both their lessons and extracurricular activities.
The school demonstrates high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. This commitment is evident from the start of their education, as pupils strive to meet these expectations both academically and socially. Older students support younger ones through a buddy system, which helps develop essential social skills. The behavior of pupils is commendable, with a cooperative spirit evident during lessons and playtime. The school maintains effective routines, and pupils enjoy warm relationships with staff, contributing to a safe environment where bullying is rare and promptly addressed.
Holy Name offers a diverse range of clubs, including music, sports, dance, and baking, which enrich pupils' experiences and foster community involvement through charity work. High attendance rates reflect pupils' enjoyment of school, and leaders celebrate their achievements, strengthening ties with parents and the wider community. The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, enabling pupils to excel, particularly in reading and mathematics. The focus on mathematical fluency enhances pupils' confidence in calculations, and they express enjoyment in the subject.
The Reception class provides a strong foundation for early education, with children making rapid progress in literacy, mathematics, and personal development. Strong home-school links are established through events that encourage parental involvement. Staff receive regular training to ensure effective curriculum delivery, allowing pupils to retain and apply their knowledge. Regular assessments help identify and address learning gaps promptly.
Leaders promote a love of reading, with daily reading sessions integrated into the curriculum. Phonics instruction begins early, and reading materials are well-suited to pupils' abilities. However, some pupils struggle with phonics, which affects their reading fluency. Consistent support for these students is necessary to help them catch up with their peers.
Pupils with special educational needs thrive in the school, receiving the same curriculum as their classmates. Teachers and teaching assistants are skilled in adapting lessons to meet individual needs, ensuring that these pupils achieve well. In physical education, pupils develop essential skills through a structured curriculum that revisits key concepts.
The school effectively promotes personal development, encouraging pupils to explore their talents through various clubs and leadership roles. Community engagement is emphasized through charity work and educational visits that enhance learning. However, pupils need more support in understanding healthy eating and different world religions, as their knowledge in these areas is not yet sufficient.
Staff feel valued and supported by leaders, who prioritize their well-being and workload. The multi-academy trust provides meaningful support and challenge to the school. Safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, Holy Name Catholic Voluntary Academy continues to provide a good education, with areas identified for improvement, particularly in phonics instruction and personal development curriculum.
