St Francis of Assisi Catholic Primary School, located in Beeston, Leeds, is a Voluntary Academy that has recently undergone its first inspection under the Education Act. The inspection took place on October 1 and 2, 2024, and the school received commendable ratings across various categories. The quality of education was rated as good, while behaviour and attitudes, as well as personal development, were rated as outstanding. Leadership and management, along with early years provision, were also rated as good.
The headteacher, Vera Snejberkova-Taylor, leads the school, which is part of the St Gregory the Great Catholic Academy Trust. This trust is overseen by CEO Peter Hughes and a board of trustees chaired by Shaun Vickers. The school prides itself on being a welcoming environment where pupils feel valued and supported. The morning greeting and toast shared between staff and students foster a sense of community and belonging. Pupils express their enjoyment of the school, highlighting the inclusive atmosphere where friendships are easily formed.
The school sets high expectations for all its pupils, including those for whom English is an additional language. Students demonstrate motivation and enthusiasm for learning, which contributes to their overall achievement as they progress through the curriculum. The school emphasizes the importance of reading, encouraging a love for literature among its pupils. This is supported by well-trained staff who provide additional help to those who need it, including pupils with special educational needs and disabilities.
Creative and engaging experiences are integral to the school’s approach, with activities such as a ‘seaside day’ that brings joy and excitement to the pupils. These experiences significantly contribute to their personal development. The curriculum is broad and ambitious, particularly in mathematics, where a clear progression helps students build their knowledge effectively. However, in some foundation subjects, the curriculum is still developing, and pupils may struggle to recall prior learning as effectively as they do in mathematics.
Early years education at the school is strong, with a focus on vocabulary development and purposeful interactions between adults and children. The school has implemented innovative strategies to enhance learning, such as a unique reading area designed to inspire imagination. Pupils take pride in supporting their peers, with older students fulfilling buddy roles and leading school activities, which fosters a sense of responsibility and leadership from a young age.
The school also offers a variety of trips and visits that enrich the pupils' understanding of the world. These experiences are designed to complement the taught curriculum, allowing students to engage with their learning in meaningful ways. The leadership team is committed to maintaining high standards and ensuring that the caring ethos of the school is upheld. Staff members feel supported and valued, contributing to a positive working environment.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring that pupils are safe and well cared for. The school is dedicated to continuous improvement, with plans in place to enhance the curriculum across all subjects. Overall, St Francis of Assisi Catholic Primary School provides a nurturing and stimulating environment that prepares pupils well for their future educational journeys. The school community is united in its mission to offer an excellent education and support for all its students.
