Cullingworth Village Primary School, located in Bradford, West Yorkshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on December 7 and 8, 2022. The school is part of the Bradford Diocesan Academies Trust and serves a diverse student body of 318 pupils aged 4 to 11. The headteacher, Cathy Isaac, has been in position since September 2021, and the school has not previously been inspected.
The school fosters a strong sense of community among its pupils, who embody the academy trust's values of inclusion, compassion, aspiration, resilience, and excellence. Pupils express pride in their school and feel safe and happy in their environment. The leadership team maintains high expectations for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The behavior of pupils is commendable, with reports of rare bullying incidents and a strong belief that staff would address any issues effectively.
Cullingworth Village Primary School emphasizes the importance of extracurricular activities, offering a variety of clubs and sporting opportunities that engage a wide range of pupils. The school also provides outdoor activities and residential visits, enhancing the overall educational experience. During the inspection, pupils participated in a tree-planting initiative, demonstrating their involvement in community projects and their development as active citizens.
The curriculum at Cullingworth Village Primary School is ambitious and well-structured, with a clear focus on essential knowledge and the sequence of learning. In subjects like mathematics and reading, effective systems are in place to monitor pupil progress, allowing teachers to quickly identify and address any gaps in understanding. However, in some areas, such as history and science, the assessment systems are less developed, which can hinder pupils' ability to recall what they have learned.
In the early years, the curriculum is engaging and well-planned, providing children with a solid foundation for their future learning. Teachers consider children's interests when planning activities, ensuring that learning is relevant and stimulating. Pupils with special educational needs receive appropriate support, with teachers making necessary adaptations to facilitate their learning.
Reading is a priority at the school, with phonics instruction beginning in Reception. Teachers conduct regular assessments to track progress and provide additional support for pupils who may be falling behind. The commitment to personal development is evident, as pupils are educated on important social issues, including equality and tolerance, preparing them for life in modern Britain.
Pupils demonstrate good behavior in lessons and during breaks, showing engagement and attentiveness. The school's behavior policy is understood and applied consistently, contributing to a positive learning environment. Leaders are mindful of staff workload and provide ongoing support and professional development.
The safeguarding arrangements at Cullingworth Village Primary School are effective, with a strong culture of safety established. Staff are trained to identify and report concerns, and pupils feel secure knowing they can approach trusted adults with any worries. The school community is well-informed about online safety and the risks associated with technology.
To improve further, the school should enhance the assessment processes in subjects like history and science to ensure a comprehensive understanding of pupil learning. Additionally, in mathematics, some pupils may benefit from moving on to more complex topics when they are ready, rather than spending excessive time on basic concepts. Overall, Cullingworth Village Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
