Kippax North Primary School, located in Leeds, West Yorkshire, has recently undergone an inspection on June 11 and 12, 2024. The overall effectiveness of the school has been rated as good, with specific areas such as the quality of education, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision also receiving a good rating. Notably, the behaviour and attitudes of the pupils were rated as outstanding. The headteacher, Beth Burland, leads the school, which is part of the Brigshaw Trust, overseen by CEO Aidan Sadgrove and a board of trustees chaired by Emma Jackson.
The school has established a strong vision, encapsulated in the phrase digging deep, aiming high, which motivates pupils to engage positively in their learning environment. Students express a sense of joy and fulfillment in their school experience, highlighting the supportive and friendly atmosphere. The curriculum is designed to be exciting and ambitious, encouraging resilience and leadership among pupils. They take on various roles that foster a sense of community and pride in their school.
Pupil behaviour is exemplary, with high expectations consistently upheld by staff. Students are able to manage their own behaviour effectively, contributing to a calm and focused learning environment. Attendance rates are above national averages, reflecting the school’s commitment to promoting the importance of regular attendance among families.
While the school has made significant strides in curriculum development, some areas are still in the early stages. Inspectors noted that certain subjects require further development to ensure that all pupils have a strong grasp of the material. There are also mixed views from parents regarding the support provided to pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). However, inspectors found that these pupils are generally well-supported and have access to the same ambitious curriculum as their peers.
Reading is prioritized within the school, with exemplary phonics teaching helping pupils to become fluent readers. The curriculum includes carefully selected literature that engages students and inspires a love for reading. In early years, children develop positive relationships and demonstrate good cooperation and concentration during activities, which aids their learning in subjects like mathematics.
The personal, social, health, and economic education (PSHE) curriculum promotes respect and understanding among pupils. However, some aspects of this curriculum are not tailored to meet the immediate needs of students, particularly regarding topics such as puberty and consent, which may leave gaps in their understanding.
Governance at the school is strong, with trustees actively involved in ensuring that leaders are making decisions in the best interests of pupils. The trust provides effective support and professional development for staff, prioritizing their well-being and workload management. Staff express pride in their work at the school.
The safeguarding arrangements in place are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. To improve further, the school is encouraged to accelerate curriculum development across all subjects to address existing gaps in knowledge and understanding. Additionally, enhancing the PSHE curriculum to better prepare pupils for complex issues in the future is recommended. Overall, Kippax North Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a positive learning environment for its pupils.
