Leaders developing 'comprehensive early years curriculum' at this Leeds primary school - Ofsted report

Leaders at a primary school in Leeds have been praised by Ofsted inspectors for developing a “comprehensive early years curriculum.”

Westbrook Lane Primary School, located on Westbrook Lane, Horsforth, received an ‘Expected standard’ rating in five of the seven inspected categories during an Ofsted inspection on March 12, 2026.

Inspectors adjudged the school to have reached the expected standard in the areas of attendance and behaviour, early years, inclusion, leadership and governance, and personal development and wellbeing.

In a mixed inspection however, the school were told the areas of achievement and curriculum and teaching ‘Need attention.’

“Leaders have developed a comprehensive early years curriculum that identifies key knowledge for all areas of learning,” inspectors said. “The school takes account of children's starting points or particular interests when planning their experiences.

“The Reception Year environment is positive and language-rich. Daily story time celebrates books and promotes a love of reading, and associated discussion deepens children’s understanding.”

Overall, attendance rates at Westbrook Lane compare favourably with national averages, according to the report. Instances of persistent absence are low and the school has established effective systems to monitor attendance.

Pupils demonstrate “consistent behaviour routines” as they move around school in an orderly manner. The school environment is calm and staff resolve behavioural issues swiftly.

The school accurately identifies pupils’ needs and understands the barriers some pupils face, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Leaders work closely with families and external agencies to support disadvantaged pupils.

Although published outcomes in national tests have been historically positive, inspection evidence indicates that current pupils “do not consistently demonstrate the secure knowledge they need across the curriculum,” including the foundational skills they need in handwriting.

Focusing on areas of improvement, the education watchdog added: “Leaders should ensure that the curriculum is taught consistently well across all subjects, including early writing, so that pupils secure knowledge over time and are well prepared for their next steps.

“They should ensure that assessment is used systematically to track and monitor pupils’ progress through the curriculum in foundation subjects so that gaps in knowledge are identified and addressed effectively.”

The whole school community lives and breathes the school’s values of ‘caring hearts, curious minds, confident individuals,’ according to the report. Pupils develop positive relationships with adults and each other in an environment where they are nurtured.

Leaders have a deep understanding of the school’s context and challenges. They have an accurate insight into the strengths and areas for development, and have identified appropriate priorities for improvement and focus on the right areas.

The school provides a coherent personal development and wellbeing programme that runs through the taught curriculum and wider experiences within school and beyond.