Woodlands Church of England Primary School, a member of the Bradford Diocesan Academies Trust, are proudly celebrating their recent SIAMS inspection which praised the schools strong sense of belonging, care and aspiration for pupils. The assessment follows a visit to the ‘small church school with big aspirations’ last month as part of their Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools (SIAMS).
As part of the assessment, the inspector spoke to children, parents and staff who all shared that Woodlands was a place where pupils and adult live and learn well together. This was captured in the following statement: “a firm sense of belonging and togetherness are fundamental aspects of the school. This enables staff to feel valued and part of a loving family which permeates throughout. This fosters a culture where people look after each other creating a peaceful and purposeful place of learning”.
The school is led by Mr Michael Spink, Headteacher, who has formed a successful team with a focus on improving outcomes and ensuring all pupils flourish both personally and academically. This has led to improvements in pupil outcomes over the last two years with further gains expected this year.
The November SIAMS inspection report endorsed the school’s distinctively Christian ethos, vision and values. It highlighted that “inspirational collective worship is central to school life. Intentionally placed at the beginning of the day, this inclusive space is a special time. Pupils’ reflections on big question in worship flow though the school day, supporting their spiritual growth”.
The report included praise for the school’s Christian vision “We challenge ourselves to grow, contribute and succeed in the light of God”. It stated “the school’s Christian vision is deeply rooted in the needs of the community. It guides leaders and staff in their determination to ensure that pupils and adults flourish.
Religious Education provision was also praised in the report, finding that “the recently updated religious education (RE) curriculum is well planned and sequenced, strengthening pupils’ knowledge of religions and worldviews. This significant development enables pupils to explore and deepen their understanding of the diverse ways people live out their beliefs and views”.
Importantly, the inspection identified the impact that Woodlands has on relationships, stating “staff proactively build strong relationships with pupils and their families. The love and support given to them means that pupils feel highly valued and nurtured. As a result, they are happy and attend school”.
Michael Spink, Headteacher at Woodlands C of E Primary School, said:
“We are thrilled for our pupils, staff and parents. Everyone contributes to make Woodlands a special place. This success can be celebrated by the whole community. We are now focussing on continuing our growth, so that pupils can contribute more widely in the community and the world around them.
Carol Dewhurst OBE, Chief Executive Officer at Bradford Diocesan Academies Trust, added:
“It is fabulous to see Woodlands living up to its foundation as Church School in a way which is supportive and nurturing for their students, families and local community. Well done to all the staff and governors who drive this work day in and day out”
Woodlands C of E Primary School is a half form primary school based in Oakenshaw and includes nursery provision for children from 3 years old. Woodlands C of E Primary School is part of the successful Bradford Diocesan Academies Trust which leads a family of 16 primaries and 5 secondaries across the region to deliver high quality education within the context of Christian belief and practice.
To read the full report click here.