Horton Grange Primary School, located in Great Horton, Bradford, has recently undergone an inspection on 24 and 25 September 2024. The school is part of Exceed Academies Trust and is led by headteacher Rebecca Marshall. The inspection results indicate that the quality of education is rated as good, while behaviour and attitudes, as well as personal development, are rated as outstanding. Leadership and management, along with early years provision, are also rated as good. This school has not been previously inspected under section five of the Education Act 2005, but it was previously judged to be outstanding before it became an academy.
Pupils at Horton Grange Primary School express pride in attending this inclusive and caring institution. They enjoy strong relationships with adults and feel safe and happy, knowing they can approach any staff member with concerns. The school maintains high expectations for all students, which is reflected in their determination to excel. Pupils achieve commendable results in national assessments at the end of key stage two, despite starting from lower initial levels.
Behaviour among pupils is exemplary, with the school setting ambitious standards that students understand and strive to meet. Those who face challenges in behaviour receive appropriate support, allowing them to succeed. The school fosters a calm learning environment where pupils are considerate and polite. They actively engage in embodying the school’s values and take pride in receiving recognition for their efforts, such as certificates and badges. Furthermore, pupils demonstrate empathy and community spirit, participating in initiatives like fundraising for international charities and promoting road safety.
The school excels in fostering a love for reading, with pupils reading regularly at home and achieving well in phonics. They are provided with books that align with their phonetic knowledge, and those who struggle receive additional support. However, there is a noted need for more opportunities for pupils to practice letter formation, as many make errors in their writing that persist into later stages of their education. The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, but inconsistencies in delivery affect the depth of learning across different classes.
The school effectively identifies and supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they have access to the same opportunities as their peers. However, there are instances where support for pupils with complex needs is implemented too slowly, although training is in place to address this.
The early years provision is well-planned, with clear routines and high expectations that promote excellent behaviour and engagement among children. The school prioritizes improving attendance and has implemented various strategies to enhance pupil attendance rates, which are showing improvement, although some pupils still have excessive absences.
Horton Grange Primary School places a strong emphasis on the wider development of its pupils, offering a comprehensive personal, social, and health education program. Pupils learn about safety, health, and respect for diverse cultures and beliefs, with a zero-tolerance policy towards racism and discrimination. The school enriches its curriculum with educational outings and experiences, fostering leadership skills among older pupils.
Governance is effective, with trustees fulfilling their statutory duties and providing necessary support to staff. While most parents express positive views about the school, some desire more information regarding their children's learning and progress. Overall, the school demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement and the well-being of its pupils, with effective safeguarding arrangements in place.
