Towngate Primary Academy, located in Ossett, West Yorkshire, has recently undergone an ungraded inspection, which suggests significant improvements across all areas since its last evaluation. The headteacher, Annabel Berry, leads the school, which is part of The Inspire Partnership Multi Academy Trust. The trust is overseen by CEO Matthew Knox and a board of trustees chaired by John North. The inspection took place on October 8 and 9, 2024, and the school was previously judged to be good for overall effectiveness in July 2019.
Parents, carers, pupils, and staff describe Towngate Primary Academy as a special place characterized by a nurturing and homely environment. Pupils feel safe and valued as individuals, which contributes to their exemplary behavior and pride in their achievements. The school fosters a strong sense of community and maintains high expectations for all pupils, evident in the aspirational curriculum and the Towngate pathway. Pupils are engaged and enthusiastic learners, benefiting from warm and respectful relationships with staff. They know whom to approach for support regarding any difficulties or worries, and staff effectively model and promote positive behavior.
The school offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including glee club, cheerleading, chess, and sports competitions, which enrich the curriculum and encourage pupils to explore new interests. Pupils also hold various positions of responsibility, such as members of the school council and mental health ambassadors, which further enhances their sense of belonging and leadership skills. The school emphasizes mental health through daily mindful moments and encourages pupils to reflect on their experiences in journals.
Leaders at all levels demonstrate a genuine ambition to provide the best for pupils. The curriculum is continuously reviewed and refined to meet the needs of all learners, with a focus on building and extending knowledge from the early years. Pupils have ample opportunities to practice and revisit important concepts, ensuring purposeful learning. The teaching of early English and mathematics is particularly strong, with effective support for writing development. Pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, achieve well.
Reading is prioritized within the curriculum, with staff delivering phonics instruction effectively from the early years. Children are immersed in reading experiences, enjoying nursery rhymes and songs, while regular progress checks ensure that all pupils keep pace with the phonics program. The school promotes a love of reading through recommended books and daily reading activities.
The school excels in supporting pupils with special educational needs, ensuring their learning needs are assessed and met effectively. Children in the early years receive excellent care and support, with a variety of activities that promote imagination and critical thinking. The school prepares pupils for life beyond its walls by fostering important life skills and encouraging participation in enriching experiences, such as trips and outdoor adventures.
The trust collaborates closely with governors to ensure that all aspects of the school focus on the best interests of pupils. Staff report high levels of job satisfaction and benefit from quality training opportunities. The school community is supportive, and leaders are mindful of staff welfare and workload. The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, Towngate Primary Academy demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement and the well-being of its pupils.
