Ofsted inspection 2024 rates Chapel Allerton Primary in Leeds as good and praises pupils and staff

Chapel Allerton Primary School has once again been assessed as “good” by Ofsted inspectors, something which headteacher Nicholas Sykes, says is testament to the hard work of all those involved at the school.

“We are very pleased with it,” he said. “It is reflective of the work that has been done to create a quality learning environment.”

Life at the school

Ofsted inspectors visited the school in early May, where they found pupils at the nursery and primary school were “happy and confident”.

The report said achievement at the school, which is open to pupils aged three to 11, had improved and that its leaders were ambitious for future developments, an aspiration that was shared by both the staff and the wider community, with strong support from its Governors.

“Pupils behave with maturity. They show respect for one another. Bullying is rare. Pupils are encouraged to sort out small problems themselves but know there is always an adult there to help them stay safe. Older pupils are strong role models for their younger peers,” the report continued.

“They eagerly take on responsibilities as ‘Reading Leaders’ or as members of the ‘Language Ambassadors’. These roles enable them to contribute to positive change in school and the wider local community. The school wants all pupils to become successful citizens of tomorrow.”

The report said leaders planned opportunities that broadened pupils’ horizons, such as cultural visits, talks from inspirational individuals and opportunities to debate important topics.

“As a result, pupils understand and appreciate the world around them better,” it said. “The school motto of ‘Nurturing a lifelong love of learning’ is threaded through everyday life at the school.”

Lessons and learning

The report says the school had developed a curriculum that was exciting and highly relevant to pupils. And it said the curriculum included the knowledge, vocabulary and skills that pupils needed to succeed in future.

“Some aspects of the school’s curriculum need further refinement,” inspectors said. “For example, adaptations to the curriculum so that it meets the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), are still developing.”

It praised the way lessons were taught and how gaps in children’s knowledge were identified and the steps that were being taken to address these gaps.

Inspectors noted that the school’s leaders were “passionate” that every child would learn to love reading, and commented not only on the wide range of books available, but also how many represented the diversity of the school community.

Inclusive

“The school is highly inclusive. This means that pupils with SEND are at the heart of everything they do,” the report said. “Staff are committed to getting the best out of all pupils, regardless of academic ability. Leaders have committed large amounts of time and resources to improving provision for pupils with SEND. In the majority of cases, this is having a positive impact on pupils’ academic and social outcomes.

“The early years curriculum is a strong foundation for what children will learn later in school. As well as improving their understanding of communication, language and mathematics, it includes many opportunities for children to explore the world around them. Well-resourced, exciting indoor and outdoor areas stimulate children’s interests.”

Outside the classroom

Helping pupils understand how to be physically and mentally healthy, is important too at Chapel Allerton.

“Staff and pupils are encouraged to talk about problems and find solutions. Pupils who struggle to regulate their emotions receive additional support in ‘The Hub’. This space, and the colleagues who work there, are valued by both pupils and parents,” the report said.

Strong staff group

It also said staff workload was monitored closely at the school with staff feeling empowered and supported to do their jobs.

“High-quality professional development is a strength of the school. Governors support and challenge the school to ensure it is the best it can be for pupils and staff. They undertake their responsibilities with passion and commitment. Leaders at all levels are capable and ambitious.”

Find out more

Mr Sykes said he hoped the report, and the inspectors’ findings would encourage people to consider the school for their children, and he looked forward to meeting any prospective parents or pupils.

To find out more about Chapel Allerton Primary School visit the website here.