Carlton Mills is a primary school located in Manningham, Bradford, West Yorkshire. The school was inspected on July 11 and 12, 2023, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good across all areas, including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. The early years provision was rated as outstanding. This was the first inspection under section five of the Education Act 2005, as the school had not been previously inspected.
Pupils at Carlton Mills express happiness and pride in their school, which is characterized by a caring and supportive environment. Positive relationships are evident among pupils and staff, contributing to a calm and purposeful atmosphere. Behaviour is commendable, with pupils demonstrating good conduct during lessons and unstructured times. The school values, referred to as the Carlton 5, are embraced by all pupils, fostering a sense of community and respect. Instances of bullying are rare, and pupils feel confident that adults will assist them with any concerns.
Leadership at Carlton Mills is ambitious, aiming for pupils to excel academically and develop into respectful citizens. The school welcomes new pupils throughout the academic year, ensuring they feel included and supported. Attendance is a focus for leaders, and while improvements are being made, there is still work to be done to achieve consistent daily attendance.
The early years provision is a notable strength, with staff prioritizing language and social skills development. The curriculum is well-structured and tailored to meet the needs of children, allowing for independent practice and decision-making. Adults effectively use questioning techniques to enhance learning, and children exhibit high levels of self-regulation and positive relationships with peers.
Reading is a priority at the school, with various initiatives to promote a love of reading. Teachers regularly read aloud to pupils, and careful attention is given to the selection of books. Staff receive ongoing training to ensure a consistent approach to phonics instruction, and additional support is provided to pupils at risk of falling behind, enhancing their confidence and reading fluency.
Since joining the multi-academy trust, the curriculum has been redeveloped across all subjects, providing engaging and well-planned learning opportunities. Subject leaders have clear expectations for pupil achievement, although some subjects, such as geography and history, show gaps in knowledge retention among pupils. This indicates a need for ongoing assessment to ensure that the intended curriculum is effectively taught and learned.
The school fosters an inclusive culture, swiftly identifying pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. While the curriculum is adapted for these pupils, some targets set for them lack clarity, making it difficult for staff to understand the specific steps needed for individual progress.
Pupils celebrate the diversity within their school, thriving in an environment that promotes belonging and respect. They learn about various cultures and religions, sharing their experiences and participating in celebrations together. The school provides opportunities for pupils to take on responsibilities, such as school councillors and members of the Carlton care crew, fostering a sense of community involvement.
Trustees are actively engaged in the school's progress, providing both challenge and support to leaders. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to identify and report concerns. Pupils feel safe and are educated on maintaining their physical and mental health.
In summary, Carlton Mills is a school that demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and effective educational environment. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in knowledge retention in certain subjects and clarity of targets for pupils with special educational needs, the overall effectiveness of the school is commendable.
