Trinity Academy St Peter’s, located in Sowerby Bridge, West Yorkshire, has recently undergone its first inspection since opening. The inspection, conducted on 20 and 21 June 2023, resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of good across all evaluated areas, including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school has established a calm and respectful environment where pupils feel safe and valued. Leaders have high ambitions for all students, promoting a culture of respect and responsibility.
Pupils are encouraged to develop their communication skills through discussions and debates, and they benefit from a variety of experiences that broaden their horizons. The school organizes focus weeks on important themes, such as autism awareness and Black history, and provides opportunities for pupils to take on leadership roles, including anti-bullying ambassadors and mental health champions. These roles foster a sense of pride and responsibility among students, motivating them to engage positively with their peers and the school community.
The school has made significant strides in improving attendance, which has positively impacted pupils' learning experiences. Leaders prioritize reading, regularly assessing pupils' reading abilities and providing tailored support to ensure all students become fluent readers. The curriculum has been enhanced to better support learning, particularly in core subjects like reading, mathematics, and science. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that the curriculum in foundation subjects is as robust as in core subjects.
Recent improvements have also been made to the early years curriculum, with staff receiving training to utilize the learning space effectively. Positive relationships between adults and children support development, and communication skills are modeled successfully. Despite these strengths, there is a need for better alignment between early years learning and Year 1 to strengthen the foundations for future learning.
Pupils demonstrate good behaviour in lessons and during breaks, feeling safe and supported by staff. The school offers a variety of clubs and extracurricular activities, which are well-received by pupils. These activities, including performances and music lessons, help students explore their interests and talents.
Governance at Trinity Academy St Peter’s is a strength, with governors providing effective support and challenge to the school. They ensure that the information they receive is accurate and are committed to the school's continuous improvement.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff and governors receiving appropriate training to keep pupils safe. Leaders maintain a high profile for safeguarding, ensuring that staff are aware of reporting systems and that concerns are addressed promptly. Parents express confidence in the school's ability to keep their children safe.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas that require attention. Leaders need to ensure that the curriculum in early years is closely linked to Year 1 to enhance pupils' learning continuity. Additionally, there is a need to improve the teaching of different faiths and religions to better prepare pupils for life in modern Britain. Overall, Trinity Academy St Peter’s is a good school with a strong foundation for future growth and development.
