Crossley Hall Primary School, located in Bradford, West Yorkshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 16 and 17, 2023. The school emphasizes inclusion, welcoming pupils with a diverse range of special educational needs and disabilities. This commitment to inclusivity is evident in the interactions among students, who demonstrate care and consideration for one another during activities, including competitive games during break times. The school provides specialized resources for pupils with communication and interaction difficulties through a program known as 'The Vines,' allowing these students to participate in mainstream lessons when appropriate.
The leadership team has effectively addressed behavioral challenges that arose as students returned to school after COVID-19 restrictions. By reinforcing high expectations for behavior, the school has seen a significant improvement, with bullying incidents being extremely rare. However, some parents remain unconvinced about the effectiveness of these measures. The staff maintains high expectations for learning across all key stages, resulting in commendable academic achievements among pupils.
Crossley Hall Primary School prepares its students well for life in modern Britain by teaching them about various faith traditions. While most parents express satisfaction with the quality of education, a small number have voiced concerns. The leadership is actively seeking ways to engage all parents and ensure they feel confident in the education their children receive.
The leadership team is dedicated to managing their responsibilities effectively, considering teachers' workloads when reviewing assessment arrangements. Regular guidance is provided to help pupils improve their work across all subjects. However, attendance remains a concern, with some pupils frequently absent, which hinders their learning. Improving attendance is a key priority for the school.
Pupils exhibit good behavior in lessons, with teachers maintaining high expectations for both behavior and learning. Students understand the importance of respecting their peers and strive to create a positive learning environment. The school also supports the youngest learners by visiting two-year-old children in their homes, fostering strong attachments and helping them settle into the school environment.
In the early years, children demonstrate secure phonics knowledge and are taught proper letter formation. The consistent approach to early reading ensures that pupils develop confidence and fluency as readers. The curriculum is further enhanced by expert leaders in each subject area, who provide training and support to teachers, leading to rapid improvements in the curriculum.
Art and design education is particularly strong, with teachers showcasing high-quality examples from renowned artists. Pupils engage in thoughtful evaluations of art, demonstrating a mature understanding of artistic techniques and their emotional impact. The curriculum is effectively adapted for pupils with special educational needs, utilizing communication systems to support those who require additional assistance.
The school prioritizes pupils' broader development, actively seeking their input on extracurricular activities. In response to feedback, leaders are planning to offer lunchtime clubs to accommodate students who cannot attend after-school programs. Pupils are confident in discussing protected characteristics and participate in reflective activities that promote personal development.
Safeguarding measures are robust, with thorough checks conducted during staff recruitment. The designated safeguarding lead provides guidance to a large team of deputies, ensuring that child protection concerns are managed appropriately. Multilingual staff play a crucial role in translating disclosures, ensuring that all pupils feel safe and supported.
Despite the school's strengths, persistent absence remains a challenge, and leaders are encouraged to continue working with parents to improve attendance. Additionally, some parents have expressed dissatisfaction with how their concerns are addressed, highlighting the need for improved communication and resolution of issues. Overall, Crossley Hall Primary School continues to provide a good quality of education, with a strong commitment to inclusivity and pupil development.
