Kippax Greenfield Primary School, located in Leeds, West Yorkshire, underwent an inspection on March 2 and 3, 2023, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has made significant improvements since its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. Leaders at the school have established high expectations for both pupils and their learning, reflected in the school's ethos statement, Growing Greatness at Greenfield. Pupils are encouraged to demonstrate greatness through hard work, leadership roles, and supporting their peers.
The curriculum has been thoughtfully designed to enhance pupils' educational experiences, with leaders focusing on improving lesson planning across all subjects. Teachers are now more effective in delivering lessons, and pupils express enjoyment in acquiring new knowledge. However, there are instances where the presentation of pupils' work does not align with the high standards set by the leaders.
Pupils engage in assemblies that address important issues such as mutual respect and understanding diverse viewpoints. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including popular after-school clubs like netball and football, which are well-attended. Relationships between staff and pupils are characterized by friendliness, positivity, and respect. Pupils generally follow established routines and exhibit good behavior, showing respect for others' opinions and actively participating in discussions. Most pupils attend school regularly, and parents express pride in their children's attendance.
The school has developed a curriculum that is ambitious for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Curriculum leaders have clearly identified the knowledge and skills pupils need to learn, breaking down the learning process into manageable steps. Early reading instruction begins as soon as children start school, with a well-resourced phonics program in place. All staff effectively teach phonics, and pupils read books that correspond to their phonetic knowledge, fostering confidence in their reading abilities.
The mathematics curriculum is also well-structured, with daily lessons and opportunities for pupils to apply their mathematical knowledge in various contexts. In subjects like history, teachers ensure that pupils grasp essential concepts and vocabulary, which aids in their ability to articulate their thoughts. The early years provision is strong, with teachers meticulously planning activities that promote communication and language skills, fostering curiosity and independence among children.
While the school has high expectations for behavior, there are inconsistencies in how these expectations are applied across different classes. Some pupils report occasional behavioral issues, but they recognize that staff are available to help resolve conflicts. Leaders have prioritized personal development through a well-planned PSHE curriculum, complemented by enrichment opportunities such as trips and community events.
Staff members are dedicated and feel supported in their professional development, with manageable workloads and regular training opportunities. The school benefits from strong support from the Brigshaw Learning Partnership, and leaders have a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement. Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with well-trained staff who know how to identify and address the needs of vulnerable pupils.
To further enhance the school's effectiveness, leaders need to ensure that teachers consistently adapt learning for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities and apply behavior expectations uniformly across all classes. Overall, Kippax Greenfield Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a quality education and fostering a positive learning environment for its pupils.
