Lilycroft Primary School, located in Manningham, Bradford, is recognized as a good school following its inspection from November 6 to 7, 2019. The school is characterized by a positive and welcoming atmosphere where pupils feel happy and engaged in their learning. During the inspection, students expressed their enjoyment of lessons and appreciation for their teachers. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports clubs, a debating club, and an enterprise group, which encourage student participation and leadership roles. Pupils can take on responsibilities such as school councillors and anti-bullying champions, contributing to a supportive environment where bullying is rare and effectively managed.
Behavior among pupils is commendable, with a clear understanding of the school's rules: be kind, be safe, and work hard. The school fosters an attractive and stimulating learning environment, allowing students to take pride in displaying their work. Resources are readily available in classrooms, promoting independent learning among older pupils. The school has high ambitions for its students, particularly in mathematics, where a well-structured curriculum supports good progress by the end of key stage two. Pupils enjoy the subject and appreciate the diverse activities that encourage problem-solving and independent thinking. However, there is a need for more practice with times tables to strengthen their foundational knowledge.
Reading is prioritized at Lilycroft Primary School, with a strong emphasis on phonics from the start of Reception. Early readers have access to books that match their phonetic knowledge, and classrooms feature reading areas designed by pupils to foster a love for reading. Despite this focus, progress in reading does not match that of mathematics or writing, and the school is actively working to address this issue.
The school is undergoing significant changes in how it teaches foundation subjects through topic work, aiming to make learning more relevant to the community. While pupils can confidently discuss what they have learned, their work does not yet reflect a deep understanding of the concepts studied. Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities receive tailored support, ensuring they make progress and can participate in the school's broader opportunities.
Leadership and management at Lilycroft Primary School are strong, with staff feeling supported and valued. The redesigned curriculum has received positive feedback from teachers, and governors are actively involved in the school's development. Communication with parents is effective, with efforts made to overcome language barriers, resulting in positive feedback from the community.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a culture of safety promoted throughout the school. Staff are well-trained and vigilant regarding potential risks, and pupils feel secure and informed about safety practices. The school is committed to continuous improvement, with plans to enhance the curriculum for foundation subjects and further develop reading and mathematics instruction. Overall, Lilycroft Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a quality education and fostering a supportive environment for all its pupils.
