Teachers and pupils at Kirkstall Valley Primary School are celebrating after the school was awarded a ‘good’ rating by Ofsted inspectors.
Kirkstall Valley Primary, on Argie Avenue, was rated as good in the quality of education it provides, behaviours and attitudes of pupils, leadership and early years provision. Inspectors visiting the school in January also rated it ‘outstanding’ in personal development.
The school’s last report in June 2018 rated the school as ‘requiring improvement’ overall.
There is particular praise for the school’s focus on developing pupils’ reading skills. The report says:
“Senior leaders have created an inclusive and caring ethos in this school which is exceptional. All staff focus on building pupils’ oracy skills to help them become confident and self-assured. The focus on oracy is particularly evident around issues of fairness, equality and tolerance. Pupils have an excellent understanding of British values.
“Pupils eloquently told inspectors that ‘this is a fair school’ and ‘we won’t tolerate name-calling’. The pastoral support that pupils receive is extremely strong. Staff have supported families and pupils well during difficulties caused or made worse by the COVID-19 pandemic.”
Headteacher Phil Robertson said on social media that he was delighted by the final report. He said:
“It’s lovely to read and confirms what everyone connected with KVPS already knew – that this is a good school with exemplary provision for the personal development of our children.
“I can’t express how proud and privileged I feel to be a part of this wonderful school community. Thank you to everyone who has worked so hard – and lately in the most challenging of conditions – to make this possible.”
The Ofsted report – which can be read in full here – said governors need to have a clear strategy to support school improvement.
