Thorpe Primary School, located in Idle, Bradford, has recently undergone an inspection on June 7 and 8, 2023, and has been rated as good in all areas of assessment. The school has a warm and nurturing environment where pupils of all ages feel supported. Older students take on a mentoring role, assisting younger pupils during outdoor play. The staff are dedicated to encouraging students to strive for their best, fostering a positive atmosphere throughout the school.
The school has implemented a clear behavior framework known as the ‘behaviour blueprint,’ which outlines expectations for student conduct and the consequences for not adhering to these standards. This framework has led to noticeable improvements in student behavior and a reduction in bullying incidents. When bullying does occur, staff are quick to address and resolve the issues.
Leaders at Thorpe Primary are committed to providing a broad curriculum that includes a variety of subjects. They have developed plans to enhance the delivery of these subjects, and students express enjoyment in their learning experiences. However, there is recognition that some subjects require further development, particularly in teaching methods.
The school offers a range of sports clubs and extracurricular activities, which students actively participate in and take pride in their achievements during local competitions. The school community is engaged in maintaining a positive environment, with pupils taking responsibility for areas such as the school garden. Staff members, including those who supervise during lunch, are well-acquainted with the students and share a sense of pride in the school’s accomplishments.
Trustees are aware of the school’s strengths and areas for improvement, utilizing information from school leaders to monitor progress. New leadership has identified key areas for enhancement, and staff are motivated to implement these changes.
In the past, phonics instruction was identified as an area needing improvement. A new reading curriculum has been introduced, detailing the sounds that need to be taught and the timeline for instruction. Leaders provide teachers with essential information regarding student progress, ensuring that pupils read books that align with their phonics learning. However, there is still a need for additional training for staff to effectively implement the phonics curriculum, as some teachers struggle with modeling reading sounds and identifying when students misread.
The curriculum for other subjects has been clearly mapped out, specifying the knowledge students should acquire and the vocabulary necessary for effective communication. Early years staff excel in teaching vocabulary through songs, rhymes, and storytelling, helping children develop language skills from the outset.
Teachers are generally aware of the essential knowledge students need in most subjects and check for understanding before progressing. However, in some areas, the incremental steps required for student advancement are not always clearly defined, leading to confusion among pupils.
Pupil behavior has improved significantly, with students eager to succeed and embodying the school’s values of aspiration, inquiry, and mindfulness. Leaders are focused on improving attendance for a small group of students who are frequently absent.
The school’s personal, social, and health education curriculum is well-implemented, equipping students with vital knowledge for safety and responsible citizenship. Pupils are well-informed about online safety and how to navigate challenging relationships.
The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with leaders maintaining strong relationships with families and collaborating with local agencies to provide necessary support. Staff are trained to recognize and report any concerns, ensuring a safe environment for all students.
Overall, while Thorpe Primary School demonstrates many strengths, there are areas identified for further development, particularly in phonics instruction and the clarity of teaching methods in certain subjects.
