Lees Primary School, located in Cross Roads, Keighley, West Yorkshire, underwent its first inspection under the new academy framework on November 7 and 8, 2023. The school, which is part of the Brontë Academy Trust, received an overall effectiveness rating of good across all evaluated areas, including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The headteacher, James Travers, leads a dedicated team that is committed to fostering a positive learning environment for all pupils.
Pupils at Lees Primary School express happiness in attending the school, appreciating the friendly atmosphere and the support they receive from their teachers. They wear their uniforms with pride and feel safe, which contributes to their overall well-being. The school has high expectations for behaviour, and pupils strive to embody the values of caring, resilience, and friendship. The implementation of a new behaviour policy has positively impacted the school environment, with pupils demonstrating respect and cooperation during lessons and playtime.
The curriculum at Lees Primary School is broad and balanced, designed to engage pupils and promote their academic success. Leaders have organized the curriculum in a logical manner, ensuring that essential knowledge is prioritized. In subjects like geography, the curriculum clearly outlines the skills pupils should acquire at each year level. However, in a few subjects, such as science, there is a need for more detailed identification of the knowledge that pupils should learn, which would help teachers in their planning and delivery.
Reading is a central focus of the curriculum, with a strong emphasis on phonics from the early years. Teachers share a variety of high-quality books with pupils, fostering a love for reading. Support is readily available for those who struggle, ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, can develop into confident readers. The school also provides tailored learning plans for pupils with SEND, ensuring they receive the necessary support to thrive alongside their peers.
In addition to academic learning, the school emphasizes personal development through various opportunities, such as residential trips that build resilience and confidence. Pupils learn about British values and respect for diversity through visits to places of worship and discussions about relationships. While the school offers some extracurricular activities, there is room for expansion to provide a wider range of opportunities for pupils to explore their interests and talents outside the academic curriculum.
Staff at Lees Primary School have a positive outlook on their work environment, appreciating the collaborative culture fostered by the leadership team. Professional development opportunities are regularly provided, allowing staff to enhance their skills and knowledge. Most parents and carers share this positive sentiment, although some have expressed a desire for more information regarding their children's learning and greater involvement in school activities.
The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. Leaders actively monitor attendance and take necessary actions to address any issues. The governing body plays a crucial role in supporting and challenging school leaders, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the school.
In summary, Lees Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education and nurturing environment for its pupils. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in refining the curriculum in certain subjects and expanding extracurricular offerings, the school is well-positioned to continue its positive trajectory. The dedication of the staff, the supportive leadership, and the engagement of the community all contribute to the school's success.
