Baildon Church of England Primary School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

What is it like to attend this school?

Pupils eagerly embrace the 'SOAR' values of support, opportunity, achievement and respect.

These values underpin the school's ambitious vision and high-quality teaching that are firmly embedded in the school. They are reflected in pupils' exceptional behaviour, enthusiasm for learning, and high levels of engagement across all areas of the curriculum.

The school creates a strong sense of community, where every pupil is valued and respected.

Deep mutual respect between pupils and staff creates a safe and supportive environment. Pupils trust the adults around them, knowing they genuinely care about their well-being and success. This enables them to thrive, both ...personally and academically.

Parents and carers value the care, support and opportunities that their children receive.

A wide range of enrichment activities, including an array of music opportunities, sports, drama and creative arts, enrich pupils' experiences. Educational visits, including residentials, are a highlight of their school experience.

Leadership opportunities, such as the school and 'SOAR' councils, build pupils' responsibility and teamwork skills. Pupils actively engage with the local community through projects, like designing Christmas ornaments for the church and participating in recycling competitions.

This wide-ranging offer helps pupils to grow into confident, well-rounded individuals, who are ready for the wider world.

They are ably supported and proud of their achievements, developing resilience to overcome challenges. One pupil remarked that completing a trapeze activity made them feel 'unstoppable'.

What does the school do well and what does it need to do better?

The curriculum is highly ambitious and exceeds the expectations of the national curriculum.

It is carefully structured with clear progression, building knowledge from Nursery to Year 6. Careful consideration is given to pupils' next steps. The school makes meaningful links with the key stage 3 curriculum, preparing pupils well for secondary education.

High levels of challenge enable pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), to achieve their potential.Lessons are well sequenced with consistent structures. Teachers use strategies to reinforce previous learning and link it to new concepts through 'class follow ups', recaps and pre-and post-knowledge checks.

This consistent approach helps pupils deepen their understanding and retain knowledge over time.

Reading is taught through a well-structured approach, starting with phonics. Daily lessons focus on blending and decoding.

Pupils read books matched to their ability. Those who need additional support, including pupils with SEND, are quickly identified. Well-trained adults provide highly effective support through tailored interventions and one-to-one reading.

Teachers focus on developing fluency and understanding. For example, by encouraging re-reading and discussing texts. As pupils get older, they develop fluency and confidence, enabling them to tackle more complex texts.

Writing lessons are equally well structured, linking reading and writing knowledge. Pupils demonstrate a strong understanding of vocabulary and grammar, practising skills before applying them to extended writing tasks.

The early years curriculum is thoughtfully and ambitiously designed to provide a strong foundation for every child.

Key knowledge is clearly identified, ensuring clear progression from Nursery to Reception. With a sharp focus on language development, mathematics, and reading, the curriculum inspires curiosity and confidence. Adults enrich vocabulary and deepen children's understanding.

Engaging activities empower children to apply their learning in a meaningful way. For example, children in Nursery use problem-solving to create a pattern for Santa's hat. The nurturing environment develops children's independence, social skills, and positive attitudes to learning.

Children are well equipped with the resilience and readiness to thrive in key stage 1 and beyond.

Pupils' behaviour across the school is exemplary. Clear routines and high expectations create a calm and focused learning environment.

Behaviour policies are well understood, and pupils appreciate the consistent rewards, including 'SOAR' stickers. Lunchtimes are calm, with pupils playing together respectfully and engaging in games led by the 'active ambassadors'. In lessons, pupils are engaged, polite and respectful, consistently demonstrating positive attitudes to learning and responsibility for their actions.

The school prioritises pupils' personal development through developing pupils' social, moral, spiritual and cultural understanding. Pupils learn about equality, diversity and protected characteristics. Pupils show a strong understanding of respect by treating others with kindness, valuing equality and listening to others.

Pupils have opportunities to explore and debate these issues confidently.

The school works closely with the trust, who prioritises professional development. Staff welcome the opportunities for shared working and collaboration.

Last academic year, despite significant disruption due to reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC), the school prioritised education. Leaders, including governors and trustees, ensure that they continue to focus on providing the best possible education for pupils.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.

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