Shipley C of E Primary School, located in Shipley, West Yorkshire, has been evaluated as a good school following its inspection on 14 and 15 September 2022. The school has established strong and caring relationships between staff and pupils, which are central to its ethos. The values of love, honesty, thankfulness, respect, resilience, and forgiveness are integrated throughout the curriculum, promoting positive interactions among students. Incidents of poor behavior and bullying are infrequent, although some pupils may take longer to settle into their learning after social times.
The school prioritizes online safety, providing regular opportunities for pupils to learn about the dangers of online interactions and the importance of consent in relationships. The presence of community support, including visits from the Police Community Support Officer, enhances pupils' understanding of various safety issues. Leaders have made efforts to address persistent absenteeism, implementing incentives for good attendance, though challenges remain, particularly with extended family holidays impacting pupil progress.
Since the appointment of the new headteacher and deputy headteacher, significant improvements have been noted. The curriculum has been well-sequenced and ambitious across all subjects, with a focus on local history and cultural diversity. Early years education is aligned with the curriculum, ensuring that foundational vocabulary and knowledge are established for future learning. The mathematics curriculum is particularly strong, with teachers equipped to deliver it effectively, fostering independent learning skills among pupils.
However, assessment practices in foundation subjects like geography and history are inconsistent, limiting teachers' ability to gauge pupil understanding accurately. Regular training has bolstered the teaching of early reading, with phonics sessions monitored closely to ensure consistency. Pupils demonstrate confidence in using phonics to read new texts, and interventions are in place for those needing additional support. Nevertheless, reading support in subjects outside of English is less robust, with materials not always accessible to all pupils.
The school has high expectations for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they have access to the full curriculum through tailored support. The personal development program is well-structured, promoting awareness of positive relationships and respect for diversity from an early age. Staff well-being is prioritized, contributing to a supportive and cohesive working environment.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff trained to recognize and address concerns. Leaders collaborate with external specialists to provide necessary support for families. Regular reviews of safeguarding procedures help maintain high standards.
To improve further, the school needs to enhance assessment activities in non-core subjects to better reflect pupil understanding and ensure that reading materials are accessible to all students. Additionally, addressing the transition times between lessons will help minimize lost learning time. Overall, Shipley C of E Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a quality education and fostering a positive learning environment for its pupils.
