Bradford Primary School, located in Holsworthy, Devon, was inspected on June 14 and 15, 2022. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, with consistent ratings of good across various aspects including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. This was the first inspection under section five of the Education Act 2005, as the school had not been previously inspected.
The school embodies a nurturing environment, reflecting the leaders' vision of fostering a community where pupils can flourish and succeed together. Pupils, parents, and staff regard the school as a special place where individual talents are recognized and valued. Leaders prioritize understanding the unique needs of each pupil, which informs their approach to creating a learning environment conducive to success. Pupils demonstrate a positive attitude towards learning, showing determination to meet high expectations and taking pride in their school community.
Behavior among pupils is commendable, with consistent adherence to expected standards throughout the school day. They exhibit kindness, cooperation, and a sense of responsibility towards their actions. Instances of bullying are rare, and pupils feel confident that any issues would be addressed promptly by adults. Parents express appreciation for the diverse range of extracurricular activities offered, including water sports, sign language, and gardening, which enrich the pupils' educational experience.
The school has implemented a well-structured reading program that emphasizes the importance of literacy. Most pupils are confident and fluent readers by Year 2, engaging with books that match their reading abilities. Adults frequently listen to pupils read, providing support where necessary. The curriculum is ambitious and designed to build knowledge effectively, with teachers utilizing assessment to monitor pupil progress. However, there are some inconsistencies in the depth of knowledge retained across different subjects, indicating a need for further evaluation of the curriculum's effectiveness.
Teachers create engaging activities that stimulate curiosity, particularly in the early years, where communication skills are actively developed. Leaders ensure that all pupils receive the necessary support to learn effectively, balancing this with opportunities for independence. The school organizes various trips and residential visits, broadening pupils' understanding of the world beyond their immediate community and fostering a sense of citizenship.
Staff members feel well-supported in their roles, with leaders empowering them to excel. The collaborative environment within the school is highlighted by staff comments about being part of a larger team despite the school's small size. Safeguarding measures are robust, with a strong culture of safety embedded within the school. Staff receive regular training to recognize and respond to potential safeguarding concerns, ensuring that pupils learn about personal safety from specialists.
While the school has made significant strides, there is a need for leaders to evaluate the newly implemented curriculum to identify areas for improvement. This evaluation will help address the inconsistencies in knowledge retention among pupils. Overall, Bradford Primary School provides a supportive and effective educational environment, preparing pupils well for their future learning and development.
